Flights to San Rafael, El Espinar from NT$13,922

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're well prepared. We've made a list of handy hints that will help get your San Rafael vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack your passport, travel documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you hope to catch forty winks, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and choose shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to San Rafael in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you on board.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.