Flights to Kitahiroshima, Sapporo from NT$4,841

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you prepare well enough. We've compiled a list of handy travel tips that will help get your Kitahiroshima escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and choose shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will make your getaway to Kitahiroshima a pleasure. Check out our useful tips for a swift journey past security:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and ID within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your 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.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.