Flights to Tama, Tokyo Prefecture from NT$2,359

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a pain-free start to your getaway in Tama. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a comfortable experience if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh change of clothes and a good novel. Next, find a spot in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any daily medications and maybe a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and pick shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your trip to Tama a pleasure. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Have your travel documents and passport at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Traveling with a new perfume or cologne? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.