Flights to Nishibara, Uenohara from NT$7,077

If you're not prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your vacation in Nishibara. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a good read. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and pick easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

It's easy — be prepared. We've pulled together some useful tips for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Look out Nishibara, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.