Flights to Morioka, Iwate Prefecture from NT$5,430

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a hassle-free start to your getaway in Morioka. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, important documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you intend to take a short nap, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and poisons, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

It's easy — be prepared. We've compiled some tips and tricks for an easy trip through security. Look out Morioka, here you come:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to security personnel. Have them easily accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.