Flights to Villa Restrepo, Ibagué from NT$6,870

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints for a stress-free start to your vacation in Villa Restrepo. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack in your passport, important documents, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Villa Restrepo in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.