Flights to Blue Mound, Illinois from NT$54,763

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Blue Mound. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to be prepared. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help while away those hours, like your laptop or a good book. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you arrive at security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Blue Mound in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you on board.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.