Flights to La Rochelle, from NT$5,922

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well prepared. Take a peek at these top travel tips that will get your La Rochelle vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be easy if you bring the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare change of clothes and a good read. Next, leave space in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, your important medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and strong acids, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Go for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged 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.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to La Rochelle in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and ID within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.