Flights to Pons, Nouvelle-Aquitaine from NT$2,590

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a stress-free start to your time in Pons. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be easy if you carry the right stuff. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, make room in your bag for your phone and charger, any medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

It's simple — be prepared. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for an easy trip through security. Look out Pons, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.