Flights to Lisbon, Ohio from NT$9,723

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your getaway in Lisbon. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a pleasure if you pack the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and a good book. Secondly, find room in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, your medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a sharp object hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are flat and easy to take on and off.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Lisbon easy and painless. Here are some useful tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.