Flights to Alajuela, San José from NT$8,903

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're prepared. We've put together a list of handy tips that will help get your Alajuela escape started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a tablet filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to catch forty winks, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The best way to ensure a comfortable flight can be as simple as your choice in clothes. Prepare for temperature changes by bringing layers. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like flip flops and heels are best left in your suitcase. Instead, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will appreciate it.
• A serious condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Walking around the cabin and doing regular leg and foot exercises while seated is a great way to prevent this from happening. Wearing a good pair of compression socks or tights is also a wise idea.

Being organized before your flight will help make your trip to Alajuela a piece of cake. Below you'll find some top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Have your boarding pass and ID easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.