Flights to Kikuchi, Kumamoto Prefecture from NT$6,293

If you're not prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a worry-free start to your getaway in Kikuchi. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you take the right things. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare pair of socks and a good read. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, your medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and choose shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

The answer is simple — be organized. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Kikuchi, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.