Flights to Miyahara-machi, Hikawa from NT$6,354

If you're not prepared, traveling can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks for a pleasant start to your time in Miyahara-machi. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, cash and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive products, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's easy — be prepared. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Miyahara-machi, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.