Flights to Stockum, Sundern from NT$72,034

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your time in Stockum. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be easy if you carry the right stuff. First things first, you'll need toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare pair of socks and a good novel. Next, leave space in your bag for your phone and charger, your important medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and wear slightly roomy, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Stockum in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the queue.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand cream? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.