Flights to Hamburg, Iowa from NT$18,233

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're prepared. We've compiled a list of handy hints that will get your Hamburg escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and wear flat, slightly roomy shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organized before your flight will help make your trip to Hamburg a piece of cake. Check out our useful tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your ID and travel documents within easy reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to show at security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Traveling with a new cologne? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.