Flights to Ota, Gunma Prefecture from NT$5,830

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Ota.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a sharp object hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight is as simple as your choice of clothes. Prepare for temperature changes by bringing layers. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left in your checked suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will thank you later.
• The serious condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation. Walking up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises while seated helps to prevent this happening. Wearing a high-quality pair of compression tights or socks may also help.

It's all about being organized. We've put together some useful tips for a speedy trip through security. Look out Ota, here you come:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner 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-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.