Flights to El Retén, Magdalena from NT$92,135

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well enough. Take a peek at these essential travel tips that will get your El Retén escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you plan to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

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 sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to El Retén in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Have your boarding pass and ID handy. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• 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 belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.