Flights to Shisui, Chiba Prefecture from NT$5,684

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Shisui. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, travel docs, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Go for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Shisui in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.