Flights to Playa Azul, Michoacán from NT$3,921

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Playa Azul could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. Below are some handy tips that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a magazine. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and opt for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to remove.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The secret is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Playa Azul in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.