Flights to Zandobbio, Lombardy from NT$18,949

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Zandobbio. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack in your passport, important documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some great options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items so you'll hop off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and pick flat, slightly roomy footwear like sneakers.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The trick is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Zandobbio in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Keep your passport and travel documents someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.