Flights to Santa Cecilia, Guanacaste from NT$13,516

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a pain-free start to your getaway in Santa Cecilia. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a cruisy experience if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a good read. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up, and wear flat, easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Santa Cecilia quick and painless. Here are some useful tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned.
• Traveling with a new hand cream? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.