Flights to Kawaicho Amou, Hida from NT$7,007

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your time in Kawaicho Amou.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of your plane are not the place for a fashion parade. Layer yourself up with comfortable clothes and remember to take a sweater as the temperature can drop inside the cabin on long-haul flights. Flat, enclosed shoes are also a wise idea.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. But the good news is there are numerous ways to lower your risk of developing it. Stay well hydrated, walk around the cabin whenever possible and wear compression tights or socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Kawaicho Amou in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Have your ID and boarding pass within easy reach. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned separately.
• Traveling with a new hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.