Flights to Bergisch Gladbach, Cologne from NT$2,497

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well prepared. We've made a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Bergisch Gladbach escape started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a tablet filled with your favorite shows are always good options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a few toiletry items so you'll arrive feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and pack a sweater as it tends to get cool inside the cabin during longer flights. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are also recommended.
• The condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation. Doing foot and leg exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this developing. Wearing a good-quality pair of compression socks also helps reduce your risk.

The secret is to be organized before you reach security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Bergisch Gladbach in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.