Flights to Schweich, Rhineland-Palatinate from NT$4,301

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Schweich. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack in your passport, important documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll touchdown looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Schweich in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Keep your ID and boarding pass at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand cream? 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 in your carry-on baggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.