Flights to Balazuc, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes from NT$3,297

If you're not prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a pain-free start to your getaway in Balazuc. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a comfortable experience if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Next, find room in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and choose shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be organized before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Balazuc in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Keep your travel documents and passport handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.