Flights to Furukawa-cho, Hida from NT$18,395

If you're not prepared, air travel can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a pain-free start to your getaway in Furukawa-cho.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, official ID, wallet and medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you intend to take a quick nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The answer to a comfortable flight can be as simple as your clothing choices. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin begins to cool down. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left in your suitcase. Instead, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you for it.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long-distance flying is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity. To avoid this, make the most of every opportunity to wander around the cabin. Compression socks and tights are also a great idea to help lower your risk.

The answer is — be prepared. We've put together some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through security. Watch out Furukawa-cho, here you come:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport handy. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.