Flights to Castellaneta, Puglia from NT$29,196

If you're not prepared, traveling can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Castellaneta. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a comfortable experience if you bring the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, find a spot in your bag for your phone and charger, any daily medications and maybe a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and opt for slightly roomy, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've put together some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Castellaneta, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually 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 quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.