Flights to La Asunción, San José from NT$8,821

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a stress-free start to your time in La Asunción. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, official ID, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are good options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and matches, 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 a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and pick shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

It's all about being organized. We've put together some useful tips for a stress-free trip through security. Look out La Asunción, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your travel documents and passport within easy reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your earphones, 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.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.