Flights to Visan, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur from NT$15,763

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a pleasant start to your time in Visan.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, important documents, cash and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you intend to catch up on some sleep, a comfy neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of your airplane are not the place for a fashion parade. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a sweater as the temperature can drop inside the cabin during long-haul flights. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are also a good idea.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. There are many ways to minimize your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression socks, stay hydrated and move your legs and feet. Do a few laps of the cabin or try out some exercises in your seat.

The trick is to be well organized before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Visan in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.