Flights to Saint-Germain-en-Laye, Île-de-France from NT$13,112

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. Check out these handy hints that will get your Saint-Germain-en-Laye escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a stress-free experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare pair of socks and a good book. Next, make room in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any vital medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The secret is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Saint-Germain-en-Laye in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass handy. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.