Flights to Ribeira Grande, Azores from NT$13,250

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your journey a pleasant experience. Follow our top tips and you'll be cruising through the airport and seeing the best of Ribeira Grande in next to no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free flight experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a good book. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

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

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will make your getaway to Ribeira Grande quick and painless. Below are some useful tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, 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.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.