Flights to Curral das Freiras, Camara de Lobos from NT$6,080

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your time in Curral das Freiras.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you carry the right things. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare pair of socks and a good read. Next, find a spot in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Layer up with loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to pack a cardigan in case it gets cold in the cabin. Pick a pair of roomy, flat shoes as your feet may swell during the journey. Leave the stilettos and heavy boots in your main luggage.
• Unfortunately, a risk of flying long-haul is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs. Compression socks and tights are another easy way to help minimize this risk.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Curral das Freiras before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be inspected by security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container 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 sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.