Flights to Kawasaki, Fukuoka Prefecture from NT$2,446

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a worry-free start to your getaway in Kawasaki. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The trick is to be prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Kawasaki in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.