Flights to Elmwood Park, Chicago from NT$20,778

If you're not prepared, traveling can be testing. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips for a stress-free start to your getaway in Elmwood Park. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a comfortable experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and something to read. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, any medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Go for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Elmwood Park in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Have your travel documents and passport handy. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.