Flights to Okaya, Nagano Prefecture from NT$59,612

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a comfortable start to your vacation in Okaya. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you take the right things. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and a few magazines. Next, find a spot in your bag for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack 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 by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Caused by prolonged 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 legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to Okaya a breeze. Below you'll find some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free journey past security:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.