Flights to Medellin, Central Visayas from NT$1,253

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Medellin. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be easy if you've got all the right gear. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good read. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to take a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Medellin, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Keep them within easy reach.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and earphones need 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 though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring 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-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.