Flights to Thiais, Paris from NT$3,278

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. Check out these essential travel tips that will get your Thiais escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are flat and easy to pull on and off.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The secret is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Thiais in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.