Flights to Cucciago, Lombardy from NT$5,408

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a comfortable start to your vacation in Cucciago. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Cucciago quick and painless. Read through our top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, 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 need to be in containers no larger 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 valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers 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, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.