Flights to Wismar, Mecklenburg-West Pomerania from NT$16,952

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Wismar. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you pack the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and something to read. Next, find room in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and wear flat, closed-toe footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Wismar quick and painless. Here are some handy tips for a speedy journey through security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater 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.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.