Flights to Marcheno, Lombardy from NT$24,861

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Marcheno. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a comfortable experience if you carry the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and pick shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Marcheno in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.