Flights to Tome, Miyagi Prefecture from NT$2,683

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well enough. Check out these handy hints that will get your Tome vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some top tips for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out Tome, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.