Flights to Santa Marta, Curillo from

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 worry-free start to your vacation in Santa Marta. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a good read. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Opt for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Santa Marta easy and painless. Below you'll find some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked bags.