Flights to Bellegarde, Centre-Loire Valley from NT$3,659

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're prepared. We've made a list of handy travel tips that will help get your Bellegarde escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and pick shoes that are flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Bellegarde easy and painless. Below you'll find some handy hints for a stress-free journey through security:

• Keep your travel documents and ID someplace easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your jacket, belt and headphones will be required 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 will need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne? Not a problem. 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, you can keep it with you on board.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.