Flights to Kakunodate, Senboku from NT$4,394

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've planned ahead. Check out these essential travel tips that will help get your Kakunodate escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, travel documents, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you intend to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Opt for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Kakunodate quick and painless. Check out our useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.