Flights to Acon, Normandy from NT$18,823

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints for a stress-free start to your getaway in Acon. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be easy if you pack the right gear. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare pair of socks and a few magazines. Secondly, find room in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, medications and perhaps a neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your pocket knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Acon in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new cologne or perfume? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you on board.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.