Flights to Ditzingen, Stuttgart from NT$23,561

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Ditzingen. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack in your passport, travel docs, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite movies are some great options. If you hope to take a short nap, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp or pointed objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and keep your legs and feet moving.

The trick is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Ditzingen in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you on board.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.