Flights to Varenna, Lombardy from NT$13,397

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

• The trick to having a great travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer yourself up with comfortable clothes and take a sweater as it can get quite cool inside the cabin during longer flights. Closed-toed, flat shoes are also a sensible choice.
• It's likely you've heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. There are numerous ways to reduce your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression tights or socks, stay hydrated and get your legs and feet moving. Walk around the cabin when possible or perform exercises in your seat.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport can make your trip to Varenna a pleasure. Here are some top tips for a swift journey past security:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the line.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring 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.
• It's also possible you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.