Flights to Playa Grande, Puerto Vallarta from NT$18,216

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well enough. Follow these top travel tips that will get your Playa Grande vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and strong acids, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Playa Grande in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to keep your ID and travel documents within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, 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), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.