Flights to Vang Vieng, Vientiane Province from NT$6,551

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Vang Vieng could be completely stress-free or it could go on forever. Here are some useful hints that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a smart choice, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've put together some useful tips for a fuss-free trip through security. Watch out Vang Vieng, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.