Flights to Yagen Onsen, Mutsu from NT$4,101

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well enough. We've made a list of essential travel tips that will get your Yagen Onsen vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a pleasure if you pack the right gear. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a few magazines. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

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 or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The secret is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Yagen Onsen before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.