Flights to Mimizan, Nouvelle-Aquitaine from NT$9,124

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a comfortable start to your getaway in Mimizan. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, put in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are good options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Mimizan in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.