Flights to Kurobe, Toyama Prefecture from NT$12,042

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. Take a peek at these essential travel tips that will get your Kurobe vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a magazine. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and pick closed-toe, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

It's easy — be prepared. We've compiled some top tips for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out Kurobe, here you come:

• Have your passport and boarding pass close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, 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.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.