Flights to Carmelo, Colonia from NT$28,694

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Carmelo. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Pick a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

It's all about being prepared. We've rounded up some top tips for a stress-free trip through security. Watch out Carmelo, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.