Cheap Flights to Costa Rica

We've rounded up all the info you need to make your journey as enjoyable as possible. Follow our top tips and you'll be hightailing it through airport security and having a ball in Costa Rica in next to no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a comfortable experience if you take the right stuff. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and a good book. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your important medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to remove.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've compiled some top tips for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Watch out Costa Rica, here you come:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them handy to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.