Flights to Castrofilippo, Sicily from NT$9,277

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Castrofilippo could be as easy as pie or it could go on forever. We've compiled some useful hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and strong acids, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when choosing what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Castrofilippo in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.