Flights to Santa Bárbara, São Sebastião from NT$15,205

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Santa Bárbara could be simple and straightforward or it could drag on forever. Below are some useful hints that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are good options. If you plan to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you step off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and poisons, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and go for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to pull on and off.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Santa Bárbara in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.