Flights to Mercedes, Alajuela Province from NT$13,015

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and tricks and you'll be speeding through airport security and enjoying Mercedes in no time at all. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a comfortable experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and a good novel. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, your medications and maybe a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

A little pre-planning before your flight can make your trip to Mercedes easy and painless. Check out our handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.