Flights to New Athens, Illinois from NT$27,226

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey a stress-free experience. Follow our tips and tricks and you'll be zooming through the airport and seeing the best of New Athens before you know it. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a thrilling book. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a wise choice, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your legs and feet often.

Being organized before you get to the airport can make your trip to New Athens a breeze. Here are some handy tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Can't travel without your favorite perfume or cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.