Flights to Barmstedt, Schleswig-Holstein from NT$19,777

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your time in Barmstedt. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a phone filled with your favorite shows are some great options. If you plan to take a quick snooze, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items so you'll arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and matches, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and go for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to remove.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

The trick is to be prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Barmstedt in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.