Flights to Blue Island, Chicago from NT$6,136

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight as enjoyable as possible. Follow our tips and tricks and you'll be cruising through airport security and having a ball in Blue Island in no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and wear closed-toe, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your trip to Blue Island quick and painless. Below are some useful tips for a stress-free journey past security:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.