Flights to Berlin, Maryland from

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Berlin could be completely painless or it could go on forever. We've compiled some handy hints that will help you start your next great adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a comfortable experience if you take the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a good book. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, any medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The trick is to be well organized before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Berlin in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Have your ID and travel documents within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with a new hand and nail cream? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• It's also likely that you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.