Cheap Flights to El Arenal from CA $487

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to El Arenal could be a breeze or it could go on forever. We've rounded up some useful travel tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, cash and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and opt for flat, slightly roomy footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to El Arenal a breeze. We've compiled some handy tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the line.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Want to bring along your favourite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.