Flights to Buenaventura, Portobelo from NT$20,827

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well. Follow these essential travel tips that will help get your Buenaventura vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a cruisy experience if you bring the right gear. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and a good read. Next, make room in your bag for your phone and charger, any vital medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to take your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and fuels, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Pick slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance 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 socks or tights.

The secret is to be organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Buenaventura in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.