Flights to Tatekado, Kikuchi from NT$3,460

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a pain-free start to your time in Tatekado.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a good book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and strong acids, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight is often as simple as your choice of clothing. Prepare yourself for varying temperatures by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like flip flops and heels are best left in your suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will thank you later.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. There's lots you can do to minimize your risk. Don a pair of compression tights or socks, stay hydrated and move your legs and feet. Do a lap or two of the cabin or perform some stretches in your seat.

It's simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for a hassle-free trip through security. Look out Tatekado, here you come:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics must also be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.