Flights to Musso, Lombardy from NT$2,297

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks for a pleasant start to your vacation in Musso. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel docs, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a phone filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Musso in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, 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 easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.