Flights to Manizales, Caldas from NT$6,285

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a hassle-free start to your time in Manizales. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like a pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and opt for closed-toe, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Manizales in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.