Flights to Scarlino, Tuscany from NT$9,217

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well prepared. We've compiled a list of top travel tips that will help get your Scarlino vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a magazine. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and wear flat, slightly roomy footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Scarlino in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container 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 be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.