Flights to Grignan, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes from NT$9,622

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a pleasant start to your vacation in Grignan.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you take the right stuff. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a clean set of clothes and a good book. Secondly, find room in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort really should be your prime concern when deciding what to wear on board. Consider your footwear carefully too, as swelling of the feet and ankles are a common side effect of flying. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are always a sensible way to go.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. The great news is there are numerous ways to reduce your risk of developing it. Keep your fluids up, wander through the cabin as much as you can and wear compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Grignan in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and ID at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you on board.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.