Flights to Minamiaiki, Nagano Prefecture from NT$5,209

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well prepared. Take a peek at these handy tips that will get your Minamiaiki escape started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good read. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, any daily medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and strong acids, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to pack a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin. Always go with flat, well-fitting shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell during the flight. Leave the high heels and heavy hiking boots in your luggage.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. The great news is there are ways to significantly reduce your risk of developing it. Stay hydrated, wander around the cabin whenever possible and wear compression tights or socks.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've put together some helpful hints for a fuss-free trip through security. Watch out Minamiaiki, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.