Flights to West Berlin, Nova Scotia from NT$7,968

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a stress-free start to your getaway in West Berlin. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are flat and easy to take on and off.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've put together some helpful hints for a stress-free trip through airport security. Watch out West Berlin, here you come:

• Have your passport and travel documents easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.