Flights to Niihama, Ehime Prefecture from NT$5,372

If you're not prepared, traveling can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pain-free start to your getaway in Niihama. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and strong acids, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and pick shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Niihama in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.