Flights to Viareggio, Tuscany from NT$11,178

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Viareggio. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you bring the right gear. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and a good book. Secondly, find a spot in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, any daily medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and opt for easy-to-remove footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's easy — be prepared. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through security. Watch out Viareggio, here you come:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.