Flights to Independencia, Jiutepec from NT$2,207

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. Check out these handy tips that will get your Independencia vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack your passport, travel documents, wallet and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive at your destination feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and poisons, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Independencia in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Traveling with a new cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.