Cheap Flights to Ko Racha Yai from HK$261

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've planned ahead. Check out these handy hints that will get your Ko Racha Yai escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a stress-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a thrilling book. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and opt for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to take on and off.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Ko Racha Yai a breeze. Below you'll find some handy tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.