Flights to Sicelle, Castellina in Chianti from NT$6,880

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a pain-free start to your time in Sicelle. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are good options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Sicelle a piece of cake. We've compiled some handy tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Be sure to keep your ID and boarding pass at hand. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Traveling with a new cologne? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.