Flights to Jardim do Mar, Calheta from NT$68,817

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your getaway in Jardim do Mar.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your prime concern when deciding what to wear on your flight. Consider your footwear choice with care too, as swollen ankles and feet are a common occurrence. Shoes which are flat and slightly roomy work well.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. There are numerous ways to lower your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression socks, drink plenty of water and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Do a few laps of the cabin or perform exercises in your seat.

The trick is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Jardim do Mar in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.