Flights to Toda, Saitama Prefecture from NT$5,227

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've planned ahead. Check out these handy hints that will help get your Toda vacation started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The goal here is to make yourself as comfortable as possible. Don layers of breathable clothing and don't forget to pack a cardigan in case it gets cold in the cabin. Pick a pair of roomy, flat shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell a little during the flight. Leave the high heels and heavy boots in your checked baggage.
• Most travelers have heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by reduced mobility or inactivity. There are numerous ways to lower your risk. Wear a quality pair of compression tights or socks, stay hydrated and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Wander up and down the aisles of the cabin or try out some simple stretches in your seat.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Toda in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in 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 passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.