Flights to Takayama, Gifu Prefecture from NT$5,613

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey a pleasant experience. Follow our tips and you'll be zooming through the airport and having a blast in Takayama in no time.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a stress-free experience if you pack the right stuff. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh set of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when selecting what to wear on board. Consider your footwear choice carefully too, as swelling of the feet and ankles are quite common. Roomy, closed-toed shoes are always a smart option.
• A condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation. Walking around the cabin and doing regular leg and foot exercises while seated is a great way to prevent this happening. Wearing a good pair of compression socks or tights also helps reduce the risk.

The secret is to be prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Takayama in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.