Cheap Flights to Essen

We've rounded up all the info you need to make your journey a stress-free experience. Follow our tips and tricks and you'll be cruising through the airport and having a ball in Essen in no time at all. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple --- first, put in your passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favourite movies are some fantastic options. If you intend to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and some noise-cancelling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll step off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a sweater in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Essen before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.