Flights to Santa Rosa, Mérida from NT$100,755

If you're not prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a pleasant start to your getaway in Santa Rosa. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a thrilling novel. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and wear flat, enclosed footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

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

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart 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 safely in your checked luggage.