Flights to Aprica, Lombardy from NT$13,736

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your vacation in Aprica. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll step off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Aprica in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.