Flights to Obu, Nagoya from NT$4,287

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

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a few magazines. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your number one priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Layer yourself up in natural fibers and pack a jacket in case it gets cool. Always go with flat, well-fitting shoes as your feet may swell a little during the flight. Leave the stilettos and heavy boots in your main luggage.
• The condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation. Walking up and down the aisle and doing foot and leg exercises in your seat helps to prevent this occurring. Wearing a quality pair of compression tights or socks is also recommended.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your trip to Obu quick and painless. Check out our handy hints for a stress-free journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often 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-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.