Flights to Yamagata, Yamagata Prefecture from NT$5,115

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you prepare well enough. Follow these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Yamagata vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming 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 you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Yamagata easy and painless. Below you'll find some handy tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Be sure to have your passport and travel documents handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.