Flights to São Vicente, Madeira Island from NT$3,283

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Sao Vicente could be simple and straightforward or it could drag on forever. We've put together some useful hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a cruisy experience if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any medications and maybe a neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The narrow aisles of an aircraft are not the best place for a fashion parade. Wear comfortable clothes and take a sweater as it tends to get cool in the cabin during long-haul flights. Flat, enclosed shoes are also recommended.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. The good news is there are proven ways to significantly reduce your risk of developing it. Drink plenty of water, wander through the cabin wherever possible and wear compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Sao Vicente in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to have your passport and boarding pass at hand. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.