Flights to Petrópolis, Rio de Janeiro State from NT$9,215

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks for a stress-free start to your time in Petrópolis. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a stress-free experience if you carry the right things. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare set of clothes and a good book. Next, make room in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any vital medications and maybe a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Petrópolis a piece of cake. Read through our handy tips for a swift journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.