Flights to Riverside, Chicago from NT$4,194

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well enough. Take a peek at these top travel tips that will get your Riverside escape started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, important documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are some great options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of an aircraft are not the place for a fashion parade. Layer yourself up with comfortable clothes and take a sweater as it tends to get cool in the cabin. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are always a good choice too.
• A serious condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation. Walking around the cabin and doing regular foot and leg exercises in your seat helps to prevent this developing. Wearing a good pair of compression socks can also help.

It's simple — be prepared. We've put together some tips and tricks for an easy trip through security. Watch out Riverside, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand cream? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.