Flights to Bochum, North Rhine-Westphalia from NT$6,161

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Bochum.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put 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. Sharp objects, like your pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer yourself up with comfortable clothes and remember to bring a sweater as the temperature can drop inside the cabin. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are always a good choice too.
• A serious condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity. Walking up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises while seated is a great way to prevent this from occurring. Wearing a pair of compression tights or socks can also help.

It's all about being organized. We've compiled some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Watch out Bochum, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics must also go through the scanner.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.