Flights to Ushiku, Ibaraki Prefecture from NT$5,128

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're well organized. We've put together a list of handy travel tips that will help get your Ushiku vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you intend to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and strong acids, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and pick shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

Being prepared before your flight will help make your trip to Ushiku a breeze. Check out our top tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.