Flights to Bettendorf, Iowa from NT$31,423

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a pleasant start to your time in Bettendorf. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, travel docs, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you plan to catch forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and opt for easy-to-remove footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for an easy trip through security. Look out Bettendorf, here you come:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking 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 the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.