Flights to Kashima, Kumamoto Prefecture from NT$5,180

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well prepared. Take a peek at these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Kashima vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you plan to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items so you'll arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and pick easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Kashima in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Be sure to have your passport and travel documents easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.