Flights to Bad Ems, Rhineland-Palatinate from NT$4,996

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Bad Ems. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a comfortable experience if you carry the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a few magazines. Next, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any medications and perhaps a neck pillow as well. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and pick shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some useful tips for a fuss-free trip through security. Look out Bad Ems, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring 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. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.