Flights to Berlin, Connecticut from

If you're not prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks for a stress-free start to your vacation in Berlin. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a good read. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive goods, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and opt for flat, enclosed shoes like slip-ons.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Berlin in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.