Flights to Altavilla Milicia, Sicily from NT$8,025

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your getaway in Altavilla Milicia. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a great experience if you carry the right stuff. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, any vital medications and perhaps a neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Go for flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

It's all about being organized. We've compiled some helpful hints for a fuss-free trip through security. Look out Altavilla Milicia, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, 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), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.