Cheap Flights to Cologne from HK$548

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're prepared. Follow these handy tips that will get your Cologne holiday started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose slip-on footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to bring a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• The result of sustained 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 staying hydrated, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

Being organised before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Cologne a pleasure. Check out our top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also possible you'll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.