Flights to Mercedes, San José from NT$9,431

If you're not prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Mercedes. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are always good options. If you intend to take a short snooze, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll step off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

It's all about being organized. We've pulled together some top tips for a fuss-free trip through security. Watch out Mercedes, here you come:

• Have your ID and boarding pass someplace easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with a new cologne? Not a 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 bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.