Flights to Porto Moniz, Madeira Island from NT$57,976

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Porto Moniz could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. Here are some useful hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a good read. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Don layers of natural fibers and remember to bring a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin. Always go with flat, well-fitting shoes as your feet may swell a little during the flight. Leave the stilettos and heavy boots in your checked luggage.
• A condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation. Doing regular leg and foot exercises while seated is a great way to prevent this from occurring. Wearing a good-quality pair of compression socks or tights also helps reduce your risk.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to Porto Moniz a piece of cake. Check out our handy hints for a speedy journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.