Flights to Pollina, Sicily from NT$9,198

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well prepared. Follow these handy hints that will help get your Pollina escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a comfortable experience if you've got all the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, find room in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Opt for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

The secret is to be organized before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Pollina in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to security personnel. Have them close by to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.