Flights to San Cristobal, Jocotepec from NT$11,647

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a trouble-free start to your time in San Cristobal. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you hope to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll hop off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by dressing in layers, and opt for slightly roomy, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

Being organized before you get to the airport will help make your trip to San Cristobal a piece of cake. Check out our useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand and nail cream? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.