Flights to Ueda, Nagano Prefecture from NT$5,470

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Ueda. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a comfortable experience if you've got all the right gear. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, find a spot in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any vital medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Go for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

Being organized before you get to the airport will make your trip to Ueda a breeze. Read through our handy tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned separately.
• Traveling with your favorite hand and nail cream? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to 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 going through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.