Flights to Gibellina, Sicily from NT$8,409

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well enough. Follow these handy hints that will help get your Gibellina escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack your passport, important documents, wallet and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a phone filled with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you hop off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a sharp object lurking in your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and go for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

It's all about being prepared. We've pulled together some helpful hints for a stress-free trip through security. Look out Gibellina, here you come:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and ID within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to airport 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 all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will also 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 scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.