Flights to Altkirch, Grand Est from NT$7,010

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Altkirch could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. Below are some useful hints that will help you start your next great escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, put in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you plan to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive at your destination looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more 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, natural fibers and remember to take a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Altkirch in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.