Flights to Yuzawa, Niigata Prefecture from NT$5,070

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Yuzawa could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. We've pulled together some handy hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by donning layers, and pick slightly roomy, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be well prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Yuzawa in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Have your boarding pass and passport within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.