Cheap Flights to Mannheim from HK$1,376

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Mannheim could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. Here are some tips that will help you start your next great adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and poisons, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are flat and easy to slip on and off.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

The secret is to be well prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Mannheim before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked luggage.