Flights to Gerenzago, Lombardy from NT$2,617

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well organized. We've compiled a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Gerenzago escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, travel docs, wallet and medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you plan to take a quick snooze, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you step off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Gerenzago quick and painless. We've compiled some useful tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.