Flights to Andechs, Bavaria from NT$8,892

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. We've put together a list of handy travel tips that will get your Andechs vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and pick slightly roomy, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

It's all about being prepared. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Watch out Andechs, here you come:

• Be sure to keep your ID and boarding pass handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.