Cheap Flights to Hofgeismar from HK$1,683

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well enough. Take a peek at these handy tips and tricks that will get your Hofgeismar holiday started on the right note. 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 basics: passport, travel documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

It's all about being prepared. We've pulled together some useful tips for a speedy trip through airport security. Watch out Hofgeismar, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.