Flights to Espelette, Nouvelle-Aquitaine from NT$11,068

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're well organized. Follow these handy hints that will help get your Espelette escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, 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 your clothing and opt for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to remove.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

Being organized before your flight can make your trip to Espelette a breeze. Below you'll find some top tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.