Flights to Pau, Nouvelle-Aquitaine from NT$14,629

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 useful tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your vacation in Pau. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you take the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and something to read. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, your medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and pick shoes that are flat and easy to remove.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

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

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass handy. They're the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne or perfume? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked bags.