Flights to Santa Maria Maior, Funchal from NT$36,543

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips for a comfortable start to your getaway in Santa Maria Maior. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Santa Maria Maior in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to have your ID and travel documents at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.