Flights to Okawachi Onsen, Nagato from NT$6,760

If you're not prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a worry-free start to your getaway in Okawachi Onsen. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right gear. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a good read. Secondly, find room in your bag for your phone and charger, any medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and pick shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Okawachi Onsen a piece of cake. Here are some useful tips for a swift journey past security:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Next up, both you and your hand 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, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne? 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-close bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• It's also likely that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.