Flights to Portillo, Las Terrenas from NT$19,410

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've prepared well. We've put together a list of handy tips and tricks that will get your Portillo vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a stress-free experience if you carry the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare set of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your phone, tablet and chargers, any daily medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and wear flat, slightly roomy shoes like slip-ons.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Portillo before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart 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, check them in.