Cheap Flights to San José

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to San José could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some useful hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, travel docs, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favourite movies are some terrific options. If you plan to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you step off the plane looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

It's all about being organised. We've put together some top tips for a stress-free trip through security. Look out San José, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• 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 before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.