Flights to Floirac, Bordeaux from NT$26,303

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. Follow these handy hints that will help get your Floirac vacation started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a good read. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The best way to ensure a comfortable flight often lies in the clothes you wear. Prepare yourself for varying temperatures by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin gets too cold. Shoes like flip flops and heels are best left in your suitcase. Instead, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you for it.
• Most of us have heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. There are plenty of ways to lower your risk. Wear compression socks or tights, stay hydrated and keep your legs and feet moving. Walk the aisles of the cabin or perform exercises in your seat.

Being organized before your flight can make your getaway to Floirac a piece of cake. Below are some useful tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• 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 your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner 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-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked baggage.