Flights to Freteval, Centre-Loire Valley from NT$5,875

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pain-free start to your vacation in Freteval. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, be sure to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Opt for flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

It's easy — be prepared. We've put together some helpful hints for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Freteval, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Traveling with a new perfume? 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-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.