Cheap Flights to Chiang Mai from HK$231

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. We've put together a list of essential travel tips that will get your Chiang Mai escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a great experience if you carry the right things. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a fresh set of clothes and a good book. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, any vital medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some useful tips for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Chiang Mai, here you come:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also possible you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.