Flights to Tendo, Yamagata Prefecture from NT$5,489

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. Follow these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Tendo vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, cash and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and strong acids, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up, and pick slightly roomy, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

It's all about being prepared. We've rounded up some top tips for a fuss-free trip through security. Watch out Tendo, here you come:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.