Cheap Flights to Luang Tai from HK$253

If you're not prepared, travelling can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a trouble-free start to your getaway in Luang Tai. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a stress-free experience if you bring the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a good novel. Next, leave space in your bag for your phone and charger, any vital medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and pick shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to pull on and off.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged 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.

The trick is to be organised before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Luang Tai in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Keep them within easy reach.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.