Flights to Koh Samui, Surat Thani Province from NT$7,144

If you’re traveling by plane, you won’t have to decide which airport to fly into. Koh Samui has just one – Ko Samui Airport (USM).

If you’re staying in central Koh Samui, it’s wise to organize how you’ll get into the city before you touchdown. The downtown area is approximately 11 kilometers from Samui Airport.

A flight to Koh Samui means hitting the tarmac at Samui Airport. Jump off the plane, pick up your luggage and you’ll be 11 kilometers from the center of town.

With only one airline flying to Koh Samui, options are limited. You’d be smart to lock in your tickets well in advance.

Bangkok Airways operates most of the flights to Koh Samui. Catching a Bangkok Airways flight from Bangkok is the most popular way to get there.

With roughly 178 direct flights every week, you’ll be arriving in Koh Samui before you can ask, “Are we there yet?”

A large number of flights to Koh Samui set off from Bangkok, Phuket and Singapore airports.

If it’s Bangkok you’re leaving behind, you’ll be in the sky for around 1 hour and 14 minutes before you arrive in Koh Samui. Runway to runway from Phuket takes approximately 55 minutes and from Singapore, it’s 2 hours and 5 minutes.

If you’d like to save some cash on your Koh Samui vacation, then listen up! As any experienced jet-setter will tell you, don’t leave booking until the last minute. Prices are usually highest just prior to the departure date. Also, shop around and compare your options. If your destination has a few airports, you may be able to score a better deal by flying into one a little farther out. And finally, remember that it’s first in, best dressed. Familiarize yourself with airfare costs and be ready to secure your seat as soon as you spot an unbeatable bargain. The best deals don’t last long.

If you’re poorly prepared, traveling can be daunting. But don’t hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a hassle-free start to your time in Koh Samui.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a great experience if you’ve got all the right gear. Firstly, you’ll want some basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a clean set of clothes and a good book. Next, leave space in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. 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 trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The narrow aisles of an airplane are not the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and remember to bring a cardigan as the temperature can drop inside the cabin. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are also a sensible choice.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by reduced mobility or inactivity. There are plenty of ways to lessen your risk. Wear a quality pair of compression socks, drink lots of water often and get your legs and feet moving. Do a lap or two of the cabin or try out some simple stretches in your seat.

The secret is to be well organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you’ll be hopping onto that plane to Koh Samui before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass someplace easily accessible. They’re the first items you’ll be asked to show at airport security.
• 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. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you’ll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will need to go through the scanner.
• Can’t travel without your favorite perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it’s stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you’re less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.