Flights to Ko Lanta, Krabi Province from NT$1,357

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a pleasant start to your getaway in Ko Lanta.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The goal here is to make yourself as comfortable as possible. Layer up with loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case you get cold. Opt for a pair of flat, well-fitting shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell a little during the flight. Leave the high heels and chunky boots in your checked baggage.
• The serious condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation. Doing regular leg and foot exercises while seated is a great way to prevent this from happening. Wearing a good pair of compression socks also helps reduce your risk.

The secret is to be organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Ko Lanta before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.