Cheap Flights to Mae Hia from HK$448

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your holiday in Mae Hia. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a good book. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

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 avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

It's easy — be prepared. We've rounded up some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through security. Look out Mae Hia, here you come:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, 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), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.