Flights to Motomuracho, Hakodate from NT$5,594

If you're not prepared, air travel can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your time in Motomuracho. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and matches, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The trick is to be prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Motomuracho in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need 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 carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.