Flights to Haad Rin, Ko Pha-ngan from NT$9,252

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. Check out these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Haad Rin escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be easy if you pack the right gear. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, make room in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Haad Rin before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items like knives are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked bags.