Flights to Saitama-shi, Saitama Prefecture from NT$5,241

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

• Air travel can be a cruisy experience if you take the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, leave space in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your important medications and maybe a quality neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Saitama-shi in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.