Flights to Santa Luzia, Tavira from NT$27,343

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well organized. Follow these handy hints that will help get your Santa Luzia escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a comfortable experience if you've got all the right stuff. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a good read. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, your medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to take your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting 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 improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Santa Luzia in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.