Flights to Shikabe, Hokkaido Prefecture from NT$5,492

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. We've put together a list of handy travel tips that will help get your Shikabe escape started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, put in your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are always good options. If you plan to take a quick nap, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll hop off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to make yourself as comfortable as possible. Layer yourself up in breathable clothing and bring a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin. Pick a pair of flat, well-fitting shoes as your feet may swell during the flight. Leave the high heels and chunky boots in your checked baggage.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. The great news is there are proven ways to lower your risk of developing it. Stay hydrated, wander around the cabin as much as possible and wear compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Shikabe a breeze. Here are some handy hints for a stress-free journey past security:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.