Flights to Yonezawa, Yamagata Prefecture from NT$5,435

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight a pleasant experience. Follow our top tips and you'll be speeding through airport security and exploring Yonezawa in next to no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a cruisy experience if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, any vital medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and gasoline, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a sweater 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 some passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Yonezawa a pleasure. Below are some handy 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. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Traveling with a new hand cream? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to remove your shoes 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, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.