Flights to Minowa, Nagano Prefecture from NT$13,770

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Minowa could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. Below are some handy tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are good options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. 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 trusty Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Minowa a piece of cake. We've rounded up some handy tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.