Flights to Sukagawa, Fukushima Prefecture from NT$7,997

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a stress-free start to your vacation in Sukagawa.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack your passport, important documents, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you touchdown looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Consider your footwear carefully too, as swollen feet and ankles can be a side effect of flying. Roomy, closed-toed shoes are your best bet.
• A serious condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation. Walking up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises while seated helps to prevent this from occurring. Wearing a pair of compression socks or tights can also help.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Sukagawa in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.