Flights to Zapata, Acapulco from NT$65,851

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. Take a peek at these handy hints that will get your Zapata vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to take a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Zapata a pleasure. We've rounded up some handy hints for a swift journey through security:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.