Flights to Polistena, Calabria from NT$29,750

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. We've compiled a list of handy tips that will get your Polistena escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a good book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The trick is to be well organized before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Polistena before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Have your ID and boarding pass easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.