Flights to Matehuala, San Luis Potosi from NT$71,023

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've prepared well enough. Take a peek at these handy tips and tricks that will get your Matehuala vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are good options. If you plan to take a short nap, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and pick flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Matehuala in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.