Flights to Bang Phra, Pattaya from NT$6,157

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pain-free start to your vacation in Bang Phra. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack in your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive at your destination feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp objects, like your pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

The secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Bang Phra before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items 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 electronics, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned separately.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.