Flights to Duisburg, North Rhine-Westphalia from NT$4,761

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. We've made a list of handy travel tips that will help get your Duisburg vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

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 flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Opt for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

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 Duisburg in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, 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), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.