Flights to Carate Brianza, Milan from NT$15,376

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your vacation in Carate Brianza.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, bank cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The goal here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Layer yourself up in natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin. Go for a pair of well-fitting, flat shoes as your feet may swell during the journey. Leave the high heels and heavy hiking boots in your checked baggage.
• Unfortunately, a risk of flying long-haul is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity. To avoid this, take every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression socks and tights are also a great idea to help minimize this risk.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Carate Brianza in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to keep your ID and travel documents within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of 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.