Cheap Flights to Thong Pha Phum from HK$448

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well enough. We've made a list of handy hints that will get your Thong Pha Phum escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you take the right things. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare pair of socks and a magazine or two. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your important medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to take your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and wear closed-toe, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

It's all about being prepared. We've pulled together some useful tips for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Thong Pha Phum, here you come:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.