Flights to Portillo, Los Andes from NT$15,488

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Portillo could be completely stress-free or it could go on forever. We've rounded up some handy tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've put together some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Look out Portillo, here you come:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and ID within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned separately.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.