Flights to Cologne, Lombardy from NT$3,050

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey a stress-free experience. Follow our tips and tricks and you'll be hightailing it through the airport and exploring Cologne in next to no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a great experience if you bring the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a few magazines. Next, find room in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and maybe a quality neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like box cutters, razor blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise choice, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

Being organized before your flight will make your trip to Cologne easy and painless. Here are some top tips for a swift journey through security:

• Keep your ID and travel documents handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics must also go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.