Flights to Santa Elena, Mérida from NT$22,943

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Santa Elena could be completely painless or it could go on forever. Below are some handy travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and pick shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The trick is to be well organized before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Santa Elena in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass at hand. They're the first items you'll be asked for by security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.