Flights to San José, from NT$19,966

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to worry. Follow these tips and tricks for a stress-free start to your getaway in San José. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, cash and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a few magazines. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and opt for easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to San José in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.