Flights to Laem Bua, Nakhon Chai Si from NT$2,860

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Laem Bua.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a great experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a few magazines. Next, find a spot in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any medications and perhaps a neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a sharp object hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to make yourself as comfortable as you can. Dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to pack a sweater just in case you get chilly. Go for a pair of well-fitting, flat shoes as your feet may swell a little during the journey. Leave the high heels and heavy boots in your luggage.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a serious condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. The good news is there are ways to significantly reduce the risk of developing it. Keep your fluids up, wander through the cabin as often as possible and wear compression tights or socks.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport can make your trip to Laem Bua a piece of cake. Below are some useful tips for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.