Flights to Awazumachi, Komatsu from NT$5,130

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks for a comfortable start to your time in Awazumachi.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The main aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Don layers of natural-fiber clothing and bring a cardigan just in case you get cold. Go for a pair of flat, slightly roomy shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell during the journey. Leave the stilettos and heavy hiking boots in your main luggage.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-haul flights is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to stretch your legs and walk around the cabin. Compression socks and tights are another great idea to help minimize this risk.

The answer is — be prepared. We've put together some useful tips for an easy trip through security. Watch out Awazumachi, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand 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 OK to bring with you in your carry-on.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.