Flights to Luz de America, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas from NT$15,161

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Luz de America could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. We've compiled some useful tips that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and choose shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to pull on and off.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

Being prepared before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Luz de America quick and painless. Below you'll find some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey through security:

• Keep your passport and boarding pass within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• 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 before your turn arrives.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne or perfume? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.