Flights to Puerto Viejo, Caldera from NT$95,208

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be challenging. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a pleasant start to your time in Puerto Viejo. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack in your passport, official ID, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are always good options. If you intend to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a few toiletry items so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe footwear like slip-ons.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

The secret is to be organized before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Puerto Viejo in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.