Flights to Shinjo, Yamagata Prefecture from NT$19,558

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a worry-free start to your vacation in Shinjo. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are good options. If you intend to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you arrive looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've put together some useful tips for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Shinjo, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.