Flights to Granite City, St. Louis from NT$7,381

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Granite City could be no sweat at all or it could go on forever. We've rounded up some useful hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy --- first, pack in your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling book and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you intend to take a quick nap, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The main aim is to make yourself as comfortable as possible. Don layers of natural fibers and remember to pack a pullover in case it gets cool in the cabin. Always opt for well-fitting, flat shoes as your feet may swell a little during the flight. Leave the stilettos and hiking boots in your checked luggage.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-distance flying is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity. To prevent this from happening, make the most of every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression socks and tights are another simple way to help minimize this risk.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Granite City in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.