Flights to Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu from NT$23,697

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're prepared. We've made a list of handy tips that will get your Aguas Calientes vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you take the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a good novel. Next, find a spot in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any medications and maybe a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Aguas Calientes in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. 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.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.