Flights to Washington, Illinois from NT$57,587

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey an enjoyable experience. Follow our insider tips and you'll be speeding through airport security and having a blast in Washington before you know it.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a few magazines. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

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 gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fireworks, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The narrow aisles of a plane are not the place for a fashion parade. Layer yourself up with comfortable clothes and remember to take a sweater as it tends to get cool in the cabin. Enclosed, flat shoes are also a wise idea.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long-haul flights is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity. To avoid this, take every opportunity to wander around the cabin. Compression tights and socks are another great idea to help minimize this risk.

It's all about being organized. We've compiled some useful tips for an easy trip through security. Watch out Washington, here you come:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked for by airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will also need to go through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.