Flights to Valle Azul, San Lorenzo from NT$9,815

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well enough. Follow these top travel tips that will help get your Valle Azul escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a great experience if you carry the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Next, find room in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to remove.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

The secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Valle Azul in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets must also be sent through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand cream? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.