Flights to Mesquita, Rio de Janeiro from NT$4,583

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your time in Mesquita. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a good read. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and go for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to take on and off.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

A little pre-planning before your flight can make your getaway to Mesquita easy and painless. Below are some handy tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Have your travel documents and passport easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.