Flights to Tha Sut, Chiang Rai from NT$2,537

If you're not prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips for a pain-free start to your getaway in Tha Sut. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

It's all about being organized. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through security. Look out Tha Sut, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.