Flights to Leverkusen, Cologne from NT$19,580

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your getaway in Leverkusen. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a thrilling book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a sharp object lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and choose shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport can make your trip to Leverkusen easy and painless. Check out our useful tips for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.