Flights to Vales, Aljezur from NT$5,961

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your time in Vales. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be easy if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a fresh change of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, find room in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any vital medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• 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 simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Vales in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.