Flights to Kasumigaura, Ibaraki Prefecture from NT$5,537

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Kasumigaura. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you take the right stuff. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and something to read. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

It's all about being prepared. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for a speedy trip through security. Look out Kasumigaura, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.