Flights to Punta de Garza, San Pedro de Macoris from NT$7,288

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've planned ahead. Follow these handy tips and tricks that will get your Punta de Garza vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and fuels, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Opt for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Punta de Garza in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Keep your travel documents and passport someplace easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• 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). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.