Cheap Flights to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca from HK$1,120

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. We've compiled a list of top travel tips that will help get your Puerto Viejo de Talamanca holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a pullover in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca before you know it. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• Have your boarding pass and ID someplace easily accessible. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.