Flights to Mainz, Rhineland-Palatinate from NT$21,850

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our top tips and you'll be cruising through airport security and enjoying Mainz in no time flat. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a great experience if you pack the right stuff. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and something to read. Secondly, find room in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, your medications and perhaps a neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and matches, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up, and wear easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Mainz in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• 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.
• There's a possibility that you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.