Flights to San José, Alajuela Province from NT$13,805

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well prepared. We've compiled a list of handy tips that will get your San José escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a magazine. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Opt for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before your flight can make your getaway to San José a pleasure. Read through our handy tips for a swift journey past security:

• Be sure to have your passport and boarding pass handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Traveling with a new perfume? Not a problem. 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 permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.