Flights to Marica, Rio de Janeiro from NT$28,103

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a comfortable start to your vacation in Marica. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Marica in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will need to go through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.