Flights to Santilly, Centre-Loire Valley from NT$18,430

If you're not prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pain-free start to your time in Santilly. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a good read. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, 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 opt for flat, enclosed shoes like slip-ons.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Santilly a piece of cake. Below are some handy hints for a speedy journey through security:

• Keep your passport and travel documents close by. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.