Flights to Koka, Shiga Prefecture from NT$5,220

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Koka could be as easy as pie or it could go on forever. We've put together some handy hints that will help you start your next great adventure on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free flight experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The answer to a comfortable flight is as simple as your choice of clothes. Prepare yourself for varying temperatures by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin gets too cold. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left in your checked suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will appreciate it.
• A serious condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Walking around the cabin and doing regular leg and foot exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this happening. Wearing a quality pair of compression tights or socks is also a wise idea.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your getaway to Koka a breeze. Here are some handy hints for a swift journey past security:

• Be sure to have your passport and travel documents someplace easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often 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 inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.