Flights to La Fortuna, Baja California Sur from NT$3,365

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your vacation in La Fortuna. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some useful tips for an easy trip through airport security. Watch out La Fortuna, here you come:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne or perfume? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.