Flights to Tachikawa, from NT$6,727

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a hassle-free start to your time in Tachikawa. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a good read. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

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 bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and strong acids, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and choose shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your legs and feet moving.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Tachikawa a piece of cake. Check out our handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.