Flights to Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia from NT$4,944

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pain-free start to your getaway in Aachen.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The answer to a comfortable flight is often as simple as your choice in clothes. Prepare for changes in temperature by bringing layers. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin gets too cold. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left in your suitcase. Instead, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you for it.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-haul flights is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression socks and tights are also a great idea to help minimize this risk.

The trick is to be well organized before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Aachen in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to airport security. Have them close by so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. 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, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.