Flights to Muelheim, Blankenheim from NT$25,653

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a trouble-free start to your vacation in Muelheim.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a comfortable experience if you bring the right gear. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare change of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, make room in your hand luggage for your phone, tablet and chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight can be as simple as your clothing choices. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin gets chilly. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left in your suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will appreciate it.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long flights is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, make the most of every opportunity to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs. Compression tights and socks are another easy way to help minimize this risk.

The trick is to be organized before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Muelheim before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Have them close by to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you on board.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.