Flights to Mitaka, Tokyo from NT$4,432

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

• Firstly, and most importantly, put in your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you plan to take a short nap, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you arrive feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a sharp object hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

It's easy — be prepared. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Mitaka, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can bring it with you on board.
• There's a chance you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.