Flights to Puerto Caldas, Granada from NT$119,195

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Puerto Caldas. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a cruisy experience if you pack the right gear. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a good novel. Next, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to pull on and off.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

It's all about being organized. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Puerto Caldas, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and passport within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine 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.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.