Flights to Mistretta, Sicily from NT$2,647

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Mistretta. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you take the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare set of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, find room in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as bleach and fuel, 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 priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

Being organized before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Mistretta a breeze. Here are some handy hints for a stress-free journey past security:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned separately.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise 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 baggage. They won't be allowed on board.