Flights to Puente de Piedra, San José from NT$13,270

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a trouble-free start to your vacation in Puente de Piedra. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive products, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by donning layers, and pick easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Puente de Piedra in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and ID within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.