Flights to Murphysboro, Illinois from NT$20,411

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your time in Murphysboro. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a great experience if you carry the right things. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and something to read. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to take your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave 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 by security. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Pick flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

The secret is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Murphysboro before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with a new cologne or perfume? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• There's a chance you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.