Flights to Lisbon, North Dakota from NT$29,741

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're prepared. Follow these handy travel tips that will get your Lisbon vacation started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing flight experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The best way to ensure a comfortable flight is as simple as your clothing choices. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin begins to cool down. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left for other occasions. Even though they may be your favorites, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you later.
• A serious condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation. Doing regular leg and foot exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this happening. Wearing a quality pair of compression socks is also a wise idea.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your trip to Lisbon a pleasure. Here are some handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.