Flights to Uenohara, Yamanashi Prefecture from NT$5,220

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your time in Uenohara.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The answer to a comfortable flight is as simple as the clothes you wear. Prepare for temperature changes by bringing layers. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like high heels and sandals are best left in your checked suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will appreciate it.
• A condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation. Walking up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises while seated is a great way to prevent this happening. Wearing a high-quality pair of compression socks also helps reduce the risk.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Uenohara in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned.
• Can't travel without your favorite perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.