Flights to Cartagena, Valparaíso from NT$18,069

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Cartagena. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack in your passport, travel docs, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite movies are always good options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a smart choice, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Cartagena before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Have your boarding pass and passport easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Traveling with a new hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.