Flights to Mito, Ibaraki Prefecture from NT$5,904

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pain-free start to your getaway in Mito. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up, and opt for flat, slightly roomy footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will make your getaway to Mito a piece of cake. We've rounded up some top tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Have your ID and boarding pass easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronics, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.