Flights to Tainai, Niigata Prefecture from NT$8,208

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Tainai. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you take the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, your medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and choose shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot 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 improve your circulation.

It's all about being organized. We've compiled some useful tips for an easy trip through security. Watch out Tainai, here you come:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them handy to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.