Flights to Kaminoyama, Yamagata Prefecture from NT$2,986

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a trouble-free start to your vacation in Kaminoyama. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a phone filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you plan to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive at your destination looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and pick flat, enclosed footwear like sneakers.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Kaminoyama before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything 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 need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.