Flights to Hanamaki, Iwate Prefecture from NT$5,444

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're prepared. We've compiled a list of handy tips and tricks that will get your Hanamaki escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack your passport, travel documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through security. Look out Hanamaki, here you come:

• Have your passport and travel documents close by. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.