Flights to Ipiales, Nariño from NT$14,274

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

• The secret to having a great flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The best way to ensure a comfortable flight is often as simple as your choice of clothing. Prepare for changes in temperature by bringing layers. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like high heels and sandals are best left in your suitcase. Instead, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will appreciate it.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. But the good news is there are proven ways to significantly reduce the risk of developing it. Stay well hydrated, walk up and down the aisles as often as you can and wear compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Ipiales in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.