Flights to San Juan de Pasto, Nariño from NT$10,315

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to San Juan de Pasto could be no sweat at all or it could go on forever. We've compiled some tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, travel docs, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll touchdown feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fuels, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to slip on and off.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The secret is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to San Juan de Pasto before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, 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 as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, 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), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.