Cheap Flights to Taormina from HK$1,493

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Taormina could be no sweat at all or it could go on forever. Here are some useful travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a thrilling book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a sharp object hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Opt for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Taormina in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.