Flights to Haad Yao, Ko Pha-ngan from NT$8,178

If you're not prepared, traveling can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your vacation in Haad Yao. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack in your passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are always good options. If you plan to catch more than just forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you touchdown looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

It's easy — be prepared. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Haad Yao, here you come:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be inspected by airport security. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal 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 need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Traveling with a new perfume? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• 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 baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.