Flights to Cisternino, Puglia from NT$44,274

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a comfortable start to your vacation in Cisternino. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you bring the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a good novel. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your phone, tablet and chargers, your important medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Cisternino a piece of cake. Below are some useful tips for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky 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 laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no larger 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 a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.