Flights to Santiago do Escoural, Montemor-o-Novo from NT$10,194

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've prepared well enough. Follow these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Santiago do Escoural escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are always good options. If you intend to take a short nap, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive at your destination looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Santiago do Escoural in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne or perfume? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you on board.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.