Flights to Kamikawa, Hyogo Prefecture from NT$5,450

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. Take a peek at these essential travel tips that will get your Kamikawa escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great flight experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a thrilling book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Kamikawa in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• 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.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.