Flights to Hirafu, Kutchan from NT$2,571

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've planned ahead. We've put together a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Hirafu vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack in your passport, travel documents, wallet and medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are good options. If you plan to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger 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 flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Hirafu in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• 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 baggage. They won't be allowed on board.