Flights to Raffadali, Sicily from NT$3,224

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Raffadali could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some useful hints that will help you start your next big adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, official ID, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a tablet crammed with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items to ensure you hop off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up, and wear easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

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

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.