Flights to Montalcino, Tuscany from NT$22,025

If you're not prepared, traveling can be challenging. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks for a stress-free start to your getaway in Montalcino. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you take the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a few magazines. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, your medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Montalcino in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices 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.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.