Flights to São Vicente, from NT$2,069

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a worry-free start to your time in Sao Vicente. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a great experience if you take the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, your medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Sao Vicente in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and travel documents easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, 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-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.