Flights to Waldeck, Hessen from NT$17,802

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a hassle-free start to your time in Waldeck. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, bank cards and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and gasoline, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Pick shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and remember to take a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Waldeck in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security. Have them easily accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with your favorite hand and nail cream? 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-lock bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.