Flights to Tsuchiura, Ibaraki Prefecture from NT$5,164

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Tsuchiura could be simple and straightforward or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some handy travel tips that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you hop off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The trick is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Tsuchiura in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be separately scanned.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on 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 single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.