Flights to Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture from NT$5,400

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've planned ahead. We've put together a list of essential travel tips that will get your Tokamachi vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Pick shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

It's simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some useful tips for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Tokamachi, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container 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 great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.