Flights to Higashiura, Nagoya from NT$4,272

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in Higashiura.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a tablet filled with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you plan to catch more than just forty winks, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and fireworks, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The main aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Layer up with loose, breathable clothing and take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin. Pick a pair of flat, well-fitting shoes as your feet may swell a little during the flight. Leave the high heels and heavy boots in your main luggage.
• Unfortunately, one risk of flying long-haul is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity. To avoid this, make the most of every opportunity to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs. Compression tights and socks are another great idea to help minimize this risk.

The trick is to be well organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Higashiura in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.