Flights to Como, Lombardy from NT$2,217

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your time in Como. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be easy if you pack the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean pair of socks and a good novel. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Como a breeze. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take 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), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• 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 luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.