Flights to Santa Marta, Chiriquí Province from

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. Follow these essential travel tips that will get your Santa Marta vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare 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 suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Santa Marta in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go 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 have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand and nail cream? As long as the volume is no greater 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.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.