Flights to Lake Zurich, Chicago from NT$6,981

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Lake Zurich. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing flight experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and important medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a thrilling novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and opt for flat, slightly roomy footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The secret is to be organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Lake Zurich in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.