Flights to Martigues, Marseille from NT$4,537

If you're not prepared, traveling can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a comfortable start to your getaway in Martigues. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll touchdown looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and wear flat, enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Martigues before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Keep your ID and boarding pass at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.