Flights to Ragalna, Sicily from NT$3,975

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints for a stress-free start to your vacation in Ragalna.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your number one priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Layer yourself up in natural-fiber clothing and remember to pack a cardigan in case it gets cool in the cabin. Pick flat, slightly roomy shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell a little during the flight. Leave the stilettos and heavy boots in your luggage.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-distance travel is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression tights and socks are another easy way to help minimize this risk.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Ragalna in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before anything else. Keep them close by.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.