Flights to Portoferraio, Tuscany from NT$13,586

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a comfortable start to your vacation in Portoferraio. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a comfortable experience if you pack the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and something to read. Secondly, find a spot in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through security. Look out Portoferraio, here you come:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security. Have them easily accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), 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 heavier-style shoes are often 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, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.