Flights to Guayacanes, San Pedro de Macorís from NT$14,573

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a stress-free start to your vacation in Guayacanes. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you plan to catch up on some sleep, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items so you'll hop off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and go for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being prepared before your flight can make your getaway to Guayacanes a breeze. Below you'll find some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey through security:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and ID within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.