Flights to São Vicente, Cape Verde from NT$137,015

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in São Vicente. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and poisons, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's all about being prepared. We've compiled some useful tips for a speedy trip through airport security. Watch out São Vicente, here you come:

• Keep your travel documents and passport handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.