Flights to Hinsdale, Chicago from NT$8,292

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're well organized. We've made a list of handy hints that will get your Hinsdale vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

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 bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by donning layers, and pick flat, closed-toe footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Hinsdale in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronics must also be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• It's also likely that you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a smart idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.