Flights to Nishimachi, Kijimadaira from NT$4,105

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a worry-free start to your getaway in Nishimachi. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a pleasure if you take the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a fresh change of clothes and a good novel. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your phone, tablet and chargers, your important medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to take a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your feet and legs moving.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Nishimachi before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually 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-close bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.