Flights to Polienas, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes from NT$3,575

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Polienas. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you intend to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Polienas in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and ID handy. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.