Flights to Nikaho, Akita Prefecture from NT$8,993

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. Follow these handy tips that will get your Nikaho escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, put in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll touchdown feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up, and pick slightly roomy, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Nikaho before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and passport close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.