Flights to O'Fallon, St. Louis from NT$26,858

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well prepared. We've compiled a list of handy hints that will help get your O'Fallon escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a magazine. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and pick shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to pull on and off.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

It's simple — be prepared. We've pulled together some useful tips for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out O'Fallon, here you come:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.