Flights to Higashichichibu-mura, Saitama Prefecture from NT$5,980

If you're not prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your vacation in Higashichichibu-mura. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack your passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to take a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

It's easy — be prepared. We've rounded up some helpful hints for a speedy trip through security. Look out Higashichichibu-mura, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.