Flights to Poggi del Sasso, Cinigiano from NT$9,036

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a stress-free start to your vacation in Poggi del Sasso. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a pleasure if you've got all the right stuff. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and a good book. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Poggi del Sasso in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.