Flights to Saint-Andre, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes from NT$27,540

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Saint-Andre. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a juicy novel. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and choose shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being organized before your flight will help make your trip to Saint-Andre a pleasure. Below are some handy tips for a swift journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.