Flights to San Rafael, Alajuela Province from NT$14,680

If you're not prepared, traveling can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in San Rafael. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to take on and off.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to San Rafael in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and passport close by. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.