Flights to Torre de' Busi, Lombardy from NT$2,623

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Torre de' Busi.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack your passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite movies are some great options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you step off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your number one priority is to make yourself as comfortable as you can. Layer up with loose, natural fibers and remember to pack a pullover just in case you get cold. Pick well-fitting, flat shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell during the journey. Leave the stilettos and chunky boots in your checked baggage.
• A condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation. Doing leg and foot exercises in your seat helps to prevent this developing. Wearing a good pair of compression socks or tights is also recommended.

The trick is to be organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Torre de' Busi in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass close by. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring 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-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.