Flights to Shihoro, Hokkaido Prefecture from NT$14,584

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Shihoro could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. Below are some tips that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, important documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you plan to catch up on some sleep, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items so you'll arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your getaway to Shihoro a pleasure. Read through our handy tips for a swift journey through security:

• Be sure to keep your ID and boarding pass close by. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in 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.