Flights to Salzbrunn, Berlin from NT$2,725

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints for a pain-free start to your getaway in Salzbrunn. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, cash and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up, and pick easy-to-remove footwear like sneakers.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Salzbrunn before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Have your boarding pass and passport someplace easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.