Flights to Kawaguchi, Saitama Prefecture from NT$2,600

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your vacation in Kawaguchi. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, cash and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• 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 socks or tights.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Kawaguchi in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and travel documents someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil 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), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.