Flights to Merlino, Lombardy from NT$21,126

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. We've made a list of handy hints that will get your Merlino vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a clean set of clothes and something to read. Secondly, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any vital medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Merlino in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Keep your travel documents and passport someplace easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• 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.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.