Flights to Pha Ngam, Wiang Chai from NT$2,581

If you're not prepared, traveling can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a worry-free start to your time in Pha Ngam. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, put in your passport, official ID, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some great options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and wear flat, easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Pha Ngam before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board must be no greater 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 great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.