Cheap Flights to Tamarindo from CA $169

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a worry-free start to your vacation in Tamarindo. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Tamarindo a pleasure. Below you'll find some handy tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board.