Flights to Río Lagartos, Yucatán from NT$45,271

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Río Lagartos could be completely stress-free or it could go on forever. We've compiled some useful hints that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a good book. Next, make room in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, your important medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Opt for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Río Lagartos in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, 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.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.