Flights to Sukayu Onsen, Aomori from NT$16,580

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Sukayu Onsen could be completely painless or it could go on forever. Here are some handy travel tips that will help you start your next big adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are good options. If you plan to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll hop off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and wear flat, slightly roomy footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Sukayu Onsen in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.