Flights to Prado, Vila Verde from NT$2,227

If you're not prepared, traveling can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a hassle-free start to your vacation in Prado.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are always good options. If you intend to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you touchdown looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of your plane are not the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and take a sweater as it tends to get cool inside the cabin on long-haul flights. Closed-toed, flat shoes are also a sensible choice.
• The serious condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation. Doing regular leg and foot exercises in your seat helps to prevent this occurring. Wearing a good-quality pair of compression socks or tights also helps reduce the risk.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Prado before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Have your travel documents and passport handy. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.