Flights to Obanazawa, Yamagata Prefecture from NT$5,437

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Obanazawa. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to take a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your legs and feet moving.

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

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and ID easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• 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 no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.