Flights to Santana, Madeira Island from NT$3,297

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a stress-free start to your getaway in Santana.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when selecting what to wear during your flight. Consider your footwear with care too, as swelling of the feet and ankles can be a side effect of flying. Flat shoes which are slightly roomy are always a smart option.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long-distance travel is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to wander around the cabin. Compression socks and tights are also a great idea to help lower your risk.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport can make your trip to Santana easy and painless. Here are some handy tips for a swift journey past security:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.