Flights to Clayton, Illinois from NT$16,451

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a pain-free start to your time in Clayton. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you bring the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a clean pair of socks and a magazine or two. Next, find a spot in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any vital medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and poisons, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and pick shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to pull on and off.
• The result of prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

Being organized before your flight will help make your trip to Clayton a piece of cake. Here are some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Keep your ID and travel documents at hand. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.