Flights to Las Américas, Popayán from

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well prepared. We've compiled a list of essential travel tips that will get your Las Américas escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you bring the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a good novel. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, any vital medications and maybe a neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your legs and feet moving.

It's all about being organized. We've put together some useful tips for a speedy trip through security. Watch out Las Américas, here you come:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.