Flights to Shinonsen, Hyogo Prefecture from NT$6,178

If you're not prepared, traveling can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a worry-free start to your vacation in Shinonsen. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are always good options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll step off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Pick easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

It's all about being prepared. We've compiled some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Watch out Shinonsen, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner 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.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.