Flights to Altagracia, Guarico from NT$11,632

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. Follow these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Altagracia escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you bring the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, leave space in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

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 flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Altagracia in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and ID within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray 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.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.