Flights to Gioiosa Marea, Sicily from NT$26,345

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a hassle-free start to your vacation in Gioiosa Marea. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and wear flat, enclosed shoes like slip-ons.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The secret is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Gioiosa Marea in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.