Flights to Wheeling, Chicago from NT$7,795

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Wheeling. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a cruisy experience if you take the right things. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as lip balm and hand cream, a fresh set of clothes and something to read. Secondly, leave space in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and poisons, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and opt for closed-toe, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Wheeling a piece of cake. Check out our handy tips for a swift journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item 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-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.