Flights to San Felipe, San José from NT$14,715

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your time in San Felipe. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a great experience if you've got all the right gear. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a fresh change of clothes and something to read. Next, find a spot in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to pull on and off.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your trip to San Felipe quick and painless. Below are some handy tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.