Flights to Córdoba, Quindío from NT$48,154

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your vacation in Córdoba. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat and easy to remove.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

It's all about being organized. We've put together some useful tips for an easy trip through airport security. Watch out Córdoba, here you come:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and passport close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• 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-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you on board.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.