Flights to Custonaci, Sicily from NT$9,058

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well. Take a peek at these handy hints that will get your Custonaci escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are good options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items so you'll hop off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and opt for flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Custonaci a piece of cake. Below are some useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will 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.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Remember 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 in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.