Flights to Minamiizu, Shizuoka Prefecture from NT$5,315

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Minamiizu.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack in your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a phone filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort really should be your highest priority when picking what to wear on your flight. Consider your footwear with care too, as swollen feet are a common side effect of flying. Roomy, closed-toed shoes are always a sensible way to go.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that can affect passengers during long flights. The great news is there are numerous ways to significantly reduce the risk of developing it. Stay well hydrated, wander around the cabin as often as possible and wear compression socks or tights.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will make your getaway to Minamiizu a breeze. Below are some handy tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and passport easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics must also go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.