Flights to Favara, Sicily from NT$2,537

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a comfortable start to your getaway in Favara. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and wear flat, closed-toe shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Favara a piece of cake. Below you'll find some useful tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and passport within easy reach. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on.
• It's also possible you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.