Flights to La Merced, Quito from NT$48,107

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to La Merced could be completely stress-free or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some handy hints that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up, and opt for flat, enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

It's easy — be prepared. We've put together some top tips for an easy trip through airport security. Look out La Merced, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also possible you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.