Flights to Gassan Shizu Onsen, Nishikawa from NT$5,437

If you're not prepared, traveling can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a worry-free start to your vacation in Gassan Shizu Onsen. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack in your passport, important documents, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling book and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you hope to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and poisons, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and wear easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Gassan Shizu Onsen in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Have your boarding pass and ID someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.