Flights to Gretna, New Orleans from NT$4,543

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips for a stress-free start to your time in Gretna.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a good read. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your number one priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Layer up with loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case it gets cool in the cabin. Go for a pair of flat, well-fitting shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell during the journey. Leave the stilettos and heavy hiking boots in your checked luggage.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long-distance travel is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to wander around the cabin. Compression tights and socks are another simple way to help lower your risk.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Gretna before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.