Flights to Villeneuve-d'Ascq, Lille from NT$40,363

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

• First things first, pack in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are good options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll touchdown feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and gasoline, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Opt for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The secret is to be prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Villeneuve-d'Ascq in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Have your ID and boarding pass within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will also need to go through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.