Flights to Varzea do Cedro, São Francisco de Paula from NT$77,124

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in Varzea do Cedro. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, cash and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Varzea do Cedro before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite hand and nail cream? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.