Flights to Guachaca, Santa Marta from NT$129,626

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a trouble-free start to your time in Guachaca. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, travel docs, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you touchdown looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and pick shoes that are flat, roomy 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-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some helpful hints for a speedy trip through security. Look out Guachaca, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.