Flights to Nagareyama, Chiba Prefecture from NT$5,307

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a worry-free start to your time in Nagareyama.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a good book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The narrow aisles of a plane are not the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and take a cardigan as the temperature can drop in the cabin during long-haul flights. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are also a good idea.
• The condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation. Doing leg and foot exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this happening. Wearing a good-quality pair of compression socks can also help.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Nagareyama in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.