Flights to Ban Wai, Lom Sak from NT$2,596

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. We've compiled a list of handy hints that will help get your Ban Wai escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to take a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Ban Wai in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and passport someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• 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 and will be confiscated.