Flights to Pavia, Lombardy from NT$4,775

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. We've made a list of top travel tips that will help get your Pavia escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack your passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and choose shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The trick is to be well prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Pavia in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to have your ID and travel documents someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. 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 phone, tablet and any other electronics must also go 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 machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.