Flights to Phon Phisai, Nong Khai Province from NT$7,721

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your vacation in Phon Phisai. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Phon Phisai in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often 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 inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.