Flights to Abashiri, Hokkaido Prefecture from NT$3,849

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your time in Abashiri.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a pleasure if you carry the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a good novel. Next, make room in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and matches, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear on board. Consider your choice of footwear with care too, as swollen feet are a common occurrence. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are always a smart option.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. The good news is there are ways to significantly reduce your risk of developing it. Stay hydrated, walk around the cabin whenever possible and wear compression socks or tights.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Abashiri easy and painless. We've rounded up some top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.