Flights to San Miniato, Tuscany from NT$9,431

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in San Miniato.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and strong acids, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are not the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and bring a cardigan as the temperature can drop inside the cabin during long-haul flights. Enclosed, flat shoes are also recommended.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long-distance flying is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity. To prevent this from happening, make the most of every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression socks and tights are also a great idea to help reduce this risk.

It's all about being prepared. We've put together some useful tips for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Watch out San Miniato, here you come:

• Be sure to have your passport and boarding pass close by. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics also need to be sent 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 separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single 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 going through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.