Flights to Santo Domingo, Piura Region from NT$118,813

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. Follow these handy travel tips that will get your Santo Domingo vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Pick shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

The secret is to be well organized before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Santo Domingo in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Have your boarding pass and ID handy. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, must also be scanned.
• Traveling with a new cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're allowed to bring it with you on board.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.