Flights to San Cataldo, Sicily from NT$2,544

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a pleasant start to your getaway in San Cataldo. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack your passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to take a short nap, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and go for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The secret is to be organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to San Cataldo in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Have your travel documents and ID someplace easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. 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 all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked bags.