Flights to Baie-Mahault, Basse-Terre Island from NT$35,550

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a pleasant start to your vacation in Baie-Mahault. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and go for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Baie-Mahault in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you 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.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices will also need to go through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.