Flights to Ko Sichang, Pattaya from NT$4,535

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Ko Sichang could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some handy hints that will help you start your next big adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, pack in your passport, travel documents, wallet and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to catch forty winks, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll touchdown looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids 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 slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some useful tips for a speedy trip through security. Watch out Ko Sichang, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be shown to security personnel. Have them close by to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be separately scanned.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.