Flights to Kawai, Nara Prefecture from NT$4,928

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well enough. We've put together a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Kawai vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by layering up, and pick flat, easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Kawai a pleasure. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass handy. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. 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 laptop, phone and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.