Flights to Iwanai, Hokkaido Prefecture from NT$2,697

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well enough. Take a peek at these essential travel tips that will help get your Iwanai escape started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack in your passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a phone filled with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items so you'll hop off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight often lies in the clothes you wear. Prepare for temperature changes by bringing layers. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin begins to cool down. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left for other occasions. Even though they may be your favorites, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will appreciate it.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-haul flights is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, take every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression tights and socks are also a great idea to help lower your risk.

Being organized before your flight can make your trip to Iwanai a breeze. We've compiled some useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey past security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked bags.