Cheap Flights to Colón

We've rounded up all the info you need to make your flight as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be cruising through airport security and having a ball in Colón in next to no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a stress-free experience if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and a good read. Secondly, leave space in your carry-on bag for your electronic devices, chargers, any vital medications and maybe a neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and wear flat, enclosed footwear like sneakers.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Colón in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also possible you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.