Flights to Gaeta, Lazio from NT$4,388

If you're not prepared, traveling can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Gaeta. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you take the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a few magazines. Next, make room in your carry-on bag for your electronic devices, chargers, your important medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and opt for easy-to-remove footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Gaeta in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to have your passport and travel documents within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.