Flights to Monticiano, Tuscany from NT$26,487

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. Take a peek at these handy hints that will help get your Monticiano vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are flat and easy to slip on and off.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Monticiano quick and painless. We've rounded up some useful tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers 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 good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.