Flights to Kashima, Ibaraki Prefecture from NT$2,292

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Kashima could be completely stress-free or it could go on forever. Below are some useful tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by donning layers, and wear slightly roomy, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be well organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Kashima before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Have your boarding pass and passport within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.