Cheap Flights to Ko Lanta Old Town from HK$243

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well organised. Check out these essential travel tips that will help get your Ko Lanta Old Town holiday started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a fresh set of clothes and something to read. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and matches, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and go for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being prepared before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Ko Lanta Old Town a pleasure. Read through our useful tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• 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 baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.