Flights to Merida, Altagracia from NT$30,538

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Merida could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some handy hints that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a cruisy experience if you bring the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare set of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, find room in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, your important medications and perhaps a neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and opt for easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Merida in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.