Flights to San Basilio del Palenque, Mahates from NT$11,223

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've prepared well. We've compiled a list of handy tips and tricks that will help get your San Basilio del Palenque vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a comfortable experience if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare set of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your phone and charger, your important medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave 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 objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and strong acids, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and go for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your trip to San Basilio del Palenque a breeze. Here are some useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey past security:

• Have your ID and travel documents within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• 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 will not allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.