Flights to Les Contamines-Montjoie, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes from NT$26,359

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in Les Contamines-Montjoie.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack your passport, travel docs, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a tablet crammed with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be the goal when choosing what to wear during your flight. Consider your footwear with care too, as swollen feet are a common side effect of flying. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are always a good idea.
• Unfortunately, a risk of flying long-haul is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression socks and tights are another easy way to help minimize this risk.

Being prepared before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Les Contamines-Montjoie quick and painless. Below you'll find some top tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.