Flights to Guaratuba, Paraná from NT$4,985

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a worry-free start to your getaway in Guaratuba. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you bring the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a good book. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Guaratuba in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.