Flights to Minamifurano, Hokkaido Prefecture from NT$6,532

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Minamifurano.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a few magazines. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight is as simple as your choice of clothes. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin begins to cool down. Shoes like sandals and heels are best left for other occasions. Even though they may be your favorites, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will appreciate it.
• Most of us have heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. There are many ways to mitigate your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression socks, drink plenty of water and move your legs and feet. Wander around the cabin or perform exercises in your seat.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've put together some helpful hints for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out Minamifurano, here you come:

• Have your travel documents and ID within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring 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 are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.