Flights to Wako, Saitama Prefecture from NT$3,946

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a pleasant start to your vacation in Wako.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear on board. Consider your footwear with care too, as swollen feet are quite common. Flat shoes which are slightly roomy are your best bet.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long-distance travel is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, make the most of every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression tights and socks are also a great idea to help minimize this risk.

Being organized before your flight will make your trip to Wako a piece of cake. Read through our useful tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of 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.