Flights to Santa Catarina, Vagos from NT$5,476

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Santa Catarina. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are always good options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you step off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and opt for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Caused by 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 and feet moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Santa Catarina easy and painless. Below are some top tips for a swift journey through security:

• Keep your boarding pass and ID easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.