Flights to Kanakido, Takayama from NT$5,056

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Kanakido.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, find room in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, any vital medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to take your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The narrow aisles of your airplane are no fashion runway. Layer up with comfy clothing and pack a sweater as the temperature can drop in the cabin. Flat, enclosed shoes are always a good choice too.
• You've probably heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. There are numerous ways to minimize your risk. Wear a pair of compression socks or tights, stay hydrated and move your legs and feet. Walk the aisles of the cabin or perform some stretches in your seat.

It's simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through security. Look out Kanakido, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.