Flights to Praia, Cape Verde from NT$62,380

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well prepared. We've compiled a list of top travel tips that will help get your Praia vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you've got all the right things. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a good novel. Next, find room in your bag for your phone and charger, medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

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 nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

The trick is to be well prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Praia in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, 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), zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.