Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've planned ahead. We've compiled a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Scharnstein escape started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, travel docs, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are good options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and strong acids, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight often lies in your clothing choices. Prepare yourself for varying temperatures by bringing layers. That way you'll stay nice and warm if the cabin begins to cool down. Shoes like high heels and sandals are best left in your suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will appreciate it.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long-distance flying is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs. Compression socks and tights are another easy way to help lower your risk.

The trick is to be prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Scharnstein before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.