Flights to Horta, Azores from NT$26,564

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've prepared well enough. Check out these handy tips that will get your Horta escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set 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 luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and poisons, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some helpful hints for a stress-free trip through security. Look out Horta, here you come:

• Keep your boarding pass and ID someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne or perfume? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.