Flights to Ciconia, Orvieto from NT$52,826

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Ciconia.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, cash and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

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 sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no fashion runway. Layer up with comfy clothing and don't forget to bring a cardigan as it can get chilly in the cabin during long-haul flights. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are always a good idea too.
• The serious condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation. Doing regular foot and leg exercises in your seat helps to prevent this happening. Wearing a pair of compression tights or socks also helps reduce the risk.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Ciconia a breeze. Here are some handy tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your passport and travel documents close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.