Flights to Melissano, Puglia from NT$19,181

If you're not prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Melissano. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, put in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are always good options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you step off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and fireworks, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Melissano easy and painless. Here are some useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and passport easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, must also be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often 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 suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.