Flights to Sao Tome de Covelas, Baiao from NT$4,232

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Sao Tome de Covelas could be completely painless or it could go on forever. We've compiled some handy tips that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a tablet filled with your favorite shows are some great options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items to ensure you hop 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 shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some helpful hints for a speedy trip through airport security. Watch out Sao Tome de Covelas, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne or perfume? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you on board.
• There's a good chance you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.