Flights to Aups, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur from NT$3,187

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Aups. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a tablet filled with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll arrive feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

Being prepared before your flight can make your getaway to Aups a pleasure. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Traveling with a new perfume? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.