Flights to Tha Kwian, Watthana Nakhon from NT$2,510

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Tha Kwian.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of a plane are no fashion runway. Layer up with comfy clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater as it tends to get cool inside the cabin during long-haul flights. Enclosed, flat shoes are also a good choice.
• The condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation. Doing foot and leg exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this happening. Wearing a pair of compression socks or tights is also a wise idea.

The trick is to be well prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Tha Kwian in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• 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 suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.