Flights to Sam Phran, Nakhon Pathom Province from NT$1,652

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Sam Phran.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you carry the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and a good read. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and fuels, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of your airplane are not the best place for a fashion parade. Wear comfortable clothes and remember to take a sweater as the temperature can drop inside the cabin during long-haul flights. Closed-toed, flat shoes are always a good choice too.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long-distance travel is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity. To prevent this from happening, take every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression socks and tights are another great idea to help lower your risk.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Sam Phran in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne or perfume? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• There's a chance you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.