Flights to Chiareggio, Chiesa in Valmalenco from NT$6,051

If you're not prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a comfortable start to your vacation in Chiareggio. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite movies are good options. If you hope to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your feet and legs moving.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Chiareggio in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the queue.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.