Flights to Sortino, Sicily from NT$17,263

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. We've compiled a list of handy hints that will help get your Sortino vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, travel documents, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are good options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive at your destination looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Sortino a pleasure. Check out our handy hints for a swift journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine 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.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.