Flights to Cape Girardeau, Missouri from NT$30,656

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you're well prepared. Check out these handy hints that will get your Cape Girardeau vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack your passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some great options. If you plan to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you step off the plane 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 hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and strong acids, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and go for 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. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

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

• Have your ID and boarding pass handy. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.