Flights to Nikkawa, Kamisu from NT$5,700

If you're not prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these useful tips for a pleasant start to your vacation in Nikkawa. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare change of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, find room in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Opt for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

It's all about being organized. We've rounded up some helpful hints for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Nikkawa, here you come:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.