Flights to Hometown, Chicago from NT$6,056

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well enough. Follow these handy tips and tricks that will get your Hometown escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a good book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and wear slightly roomy, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Hometown in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• 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 soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.