Cheap Flights to Nuevo Arenal from CA $242

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey a pleasant experience. Follow our tips and you'll be breezing through airport security and discovering Nuevo Arenal before you know it. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack in your passport, important documents, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a tablet crammed with your favourite movies are always good options. If you intend to catch up on some sleep, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

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 enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Nuevo Arenal before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.