Flights to Uji, Kyoto from NT$2,404

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a hassle-free start to your vacation in Uji. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a great experience if you carry the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and something to read. Next, make room in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, any medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids 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 comfortable clothing and pick shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The trick is to be well organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Uji before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned.
• Traveling with a new perfume or cologne? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.