Flights to Koh Tao, Surat Thani Province from NT$9,195

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Koh Tao could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. Below are some useful travel tips that will help you start your next big adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a good book. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The secret is to be well organized before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Koh Tao before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them handy to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers 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 luggage. They won't be allowed on board.