Flights to Odate, Akita Prefecture from NT$4,039

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

• Firstly, and most importantly, put in your passport, important documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a tablet crammed with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you plan to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive at your destination looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Odate a pleasure. We've compiled some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.