Flights to Yamato, Kumamoto Prefecture from NT$3,690

If you're not prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Yamato. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, important documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are good options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as you can. 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.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The trick is to be organized before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Yamato in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite hand and nail cream? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.