Flights to Damas, Quepos from NT$33,673

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you prepare well enough. Check out these essential travel tips that will help get your Damas vacation started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack your passport, important documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are good options. If you hope to take a short nap, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are not the best place for a fashion parade. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a cardigan as the temperature can drop inside the cabin during long-haul flights. Flat, enclosed shoes are always a good choice too.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long-distance flying is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To prevent this, make the most of every opportunity to stretch your legs and walk around the cabin. Compression tights and socks are another simple way to help reduce this risk.

Being organized before your flight will make your trip to Damas a piece of cake. We've compiled some top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be 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 minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.