Flights to Tohoku, Aomori Prefecture from NT$3,988

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're well prepared. Follow these top travel tips that will help get your Tohoku vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and gasoline, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Go for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

Being organized before your flight will help make your getaway to Tohoku easy and painless. We've rounded up some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be presented to airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.