Flights to Meri, Sicily from NT$38,046

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your time in Meri. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free travel experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

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

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some helpful hints for an easy trip through security. Look out Meri, here you come:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, 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), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.