Flights to Tsuwano, Shimane Prefecture from NT$14,544

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Tsuwano. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a cruisy experience if you pack the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, a charger, your medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and go for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to remove.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Tsuwano in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to security personnel. Have them close by to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.