Cheap Flights to Hirafu from HK$347

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Hirafu could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. Here are some handy tips that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a clean set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, medications and perhaps a neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The goal here is to make yourself as comfortable as you can. Dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to pack a sweater just in case you get cold. Pick a pair of flat, slightly roomy shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell during the journey. Leave the stilettos and hiking boots in your checked baggage.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long-haul flights is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, make the most of every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression socks and tights are another easy way to help lower your risk.

The trick is to be well organized before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Hirafu in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, must also be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.