Flights to Santa Cruz da Graciosa, Azores from

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Santa Cruz da Graciosa could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite movies are good options. If you plan to take a quick snooze, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items so you'll arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

It's all about being organized. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through security. Watch out Santa Cruz da Graciosa, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with your favorite perfume? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you on board.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.