Flights to Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture from NT$5,185

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pain-free start to your getaway in Hamamatsu. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be easy if you carry the right things. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a good novel. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, medications and maybe a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Hamamatsu in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.