S$154 Cheap Flights to Madiere

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Madiere could be completely stress-free or it could drag on forever. Below are some useful hints that will help you start your next great adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Pick slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Madiere in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and ID easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.