Flights to Arroyo de Piedra, Cartagena from NT$17,261

If you're not prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Arroyo de Piedra. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack in your passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are always good options. If you intend to catch up on some sleep, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fuels, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and wear slightly roomy, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

It's simple — be prepared. We've put together some tips and tricks for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Arroyo de Piedra, here you come:

• Be sure to have your passport and boarding pass easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.