Flights to Galesburg, Illinois from NT$8,296

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a worry-free start to your getaway in Galesburg. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a good read. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Galesburg in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.