Flights to Pistoia, Tuscany from NT$9,983

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your time in Pistoia. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack your passport, official ID, wallet and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are always good options. If you intend to take a quick nap, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you hop off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and go for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting 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.

The secret is to be well organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Pistoia in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, must also be separately scanned.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually 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 inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.