Flights to Koya, Wakayama Prefecture from NT$2,224

If you're not prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips for a trouble-free start to your time in Koya. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be well prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Koya in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and ID easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all 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 slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.