Flights to Yoshino, Nara Prefecture from NT$5,534

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Yoshino could be no sweat at all or it could go on forever. Here are some useful tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, travel documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a phone filled with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive at your destination looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. 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 beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• 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 simple answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some helpful hints for an easy trip through airport security. Watch out Yoshino, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.