Flights to Alton, Illinois from NT$27,016

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're prepared. Follow these handy travel tips that will get your Alton escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, put in your passport, important documents, wallet and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you hope to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant so you'll hop off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and pick flat, easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being prepared before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Alton a piece of cake. Check out our handy hints for a swift journey through security:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them handy to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.