Flights to Monastir, Sardinia from NT$38,186

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. Check out these handy tips that will get your Monastir escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare pair of socks and a good book. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, medications and perhaps a neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive products, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by dressing in layers, and pick closed-toe, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's all about being organized. We've rounded up some top tips for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Monastir, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.