Flights to Uvernet-Fours, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur from NT$2,582

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your time in Uvernet-Fours. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you hope to take a short nap, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like a pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The trick is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Uvernet-Fours in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.