Flights to Chiavenna, Lombardy from NT$5,323

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've planned ahead. We've put together a list of essential travel tips that will get your Chiavenna escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack your passport, important documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are good options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel 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 by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and pick shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

It's simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Chiavenna, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your ID and boarding pass close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.