Cheap Flights to Berlin , NY from CA $300

If you're not prepared, travelling can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pleasant start to your getaway in Berlin. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, cash and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletry items 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 differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and choose shoes that are flat and easy to take on and off.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Berlin in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.