Flights to Santa Marta, Amares from NT$2,156

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Santa Marta could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some handy hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll hop off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some useful tips for a fuss-free trip through security. Look out Santa Marta, here you come:

• Have your passport and travel documents within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. 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 inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.