Flights to Erkelenz, North Rhine-Westphalia from NT$24,379

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Erkelenz could be completely painless or it could go on forever. We've compiled some handy hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of an aircraft are not the place for a fashion parade. Layer yourself up with comfortable clothes and remember to take a sweater as the temperature can drop inside the cabin during long-haul flights. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are also a wise idea.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long flights is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, make the most of every opportunity to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs. Compression tights and socks are also a great idea to help minimize this risk.

The trick is to be well prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Erkelenz in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take 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.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.