Flights to Koka, Shiga Prefecture from NT$4,199

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Koka could be a breeze or it could go on forever. Below are some handy travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, important documents, wallet and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a few toiletry items so you'll hop off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Koka in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.