Flights to Baia Formosa, Rio Grande do Norte from NT$106,168

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Baia Formosa. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, put in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a phone filled with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you hope to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items so you'll arrive feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Pick easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Baia Formosa in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.