Flights to German, Sofia from NT$4,285

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pain-free start to your vacation in German.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a stress-free experience if you've got all the right stuff. Firstly, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a clean set of clothes and something to read. Next, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, any medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be your prime concern when picking what to wear on board. Consider your choice of footwear with care too, as swollen feet and ankles are quite common. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are always a smart option.
• A serious condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Walking around the cabin and doing regular foot and leg exercises while seated is a great way to prevent this from happening. Wearing a quality pair of compression tights or socks also helps reduce the risk.

A little pre-planning before your flight can make your trip to German a breeze. Below you'll find some handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your ID and travel documents within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Traveling with a new hand and nail cream? Not a problem. 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, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.