Flights to Mars, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes from NT$25,744

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Mars.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack in your passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a phone filled with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and strong acids, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of your aircraft are not the best place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and bring a sweater as it can get quite cool inside the cabin. Enclosed, flat shoes are also a wise idea.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. There are many ways to minimize your risk. Wear a quality pair of compression tights or socks, drink plenty of water and get your legs and feet moving. Wander around the cabin or try out some exercises in your seat.

The trick is to be organized before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Mars in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be shown to security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.