Flights to Shobara, Hiroshima Prefecture from NT$5,212

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well enough. Follow these handy hints that will get your Shobara vacation started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of an aircraft are not the best place for a fashion parade. Wear comfortable clothes and pack a sweater as the temperature can drop in the cabin on long-haul flights. Closed-toed, flat shoes are also a good idea.
• Unfortunately, one risk of flying long-haul is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, take every opportunity to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs. Compression socks and tights are another great idea to help minimize this risk.

The answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Look out Shobara, here you come:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids 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-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.