Flights to Minowa, Nagano Prefecture from NT$7,155

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Minowa could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. We've pulled together some handy hints that will help you start your next big adventure on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, official ID, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are good options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll touchdown feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of an aircraft are not the best place for a fashion parade. Wear comfortable clothes and pack a sweater as it can get chilly in the cabin during long-haul flights. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are also a wise idea.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long-distance travel is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity. To avoid this, take every opportunity to wander around the cabin. Compression tights and socks are also a great idea to help minimize this risk.

Being organized before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Minowa a breeze. We've rounded up some handy hints for a stress-free journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• 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 luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.