Flights to Guatapé, Antioquia from NT$19,262

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips for a pain-free start to your vacation in Guatapé. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a comfortable experience if you bring the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh change of clothes and a few magazines. Next, find a spot in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, your medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and wear closed-toe, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Guatapé, here you come:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and passport within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.