Flights to Santo Domingo, Altagracia from NT$20,910

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're well organized. Follow these handy tips and tricks that will get your Santo Domingo escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, credit cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and pick closed-toe, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

The trick is to be prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Santo Domingo in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Keep your passport and travel documents close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Traveling with a new perfume or cologne? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.