Flights to Numazu, Shizuoka Prefecture from NT$5,134

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Numazu. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a stress-free experience if you've got all the right stuff. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, make room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by layering up, and opt for flat, closed-toe shoes like sneakers.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Numazu in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked bags.