Flights to Chiba, from NT$2,946

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a worry-free start to your time in Chiba.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a pleasure if you bring the right stuff. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare set of clothes and a good book. Secondly, make room in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, your medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The best way to ensure a comfortable flight is often as simple as your choice of clothes. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like flip flops and heels are best left in your checked suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you later.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by reduced mobility or inactivity. There are plenty of ways to lower your risk. Wear a quality pair of compression socks, stay well hydrated and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Wander up and down the aisles of the cabin or perform exercises in your seat.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Chiba in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and passport someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.