Flights to North Riverside, Chicago from NT$5,817

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy tips for a stress-free start to your vacation in North Riverside. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you bring the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a few magazines. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any vital medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and batons, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to North Riverside easy and painless. Here are some handy tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne? No problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.