Flights to Santiago, Alajuela Province from NT$16,023

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight a stress-free experience. Follow our top tips and you'll be zooming through the airport and having a ball in Santiago before you know it. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a cruisy experience if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a magazine or two. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, any vital medications and maybe a neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and pick shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to take on and off.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

A little pre-planning before your flight can make your getaway to Santiago quick and painless. Check out our useful tips and tricks for a swift journey through security:

• Have your boarding pass and passport within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to go through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.