Flights to St.-Martin-des-Champs, Brittany from NT$8,126

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a pleasant start to your time in St.-Martin-des-Champs. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a comfortable experience if you bring the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a good book. Next, make room in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, any medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and opt for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being prepared before your flight will make your getaway to St.-Martin-des-Champs easy and painless. Below are some top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything 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 electronics, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.