Flights to Chicago Ridge, Chicago from NT$4,312

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these tips and tricks for a hassle-free start to your getaway in Chicago Ridge. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a stress-free flight experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being prepared before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Chicago Ridge quick and painless. Here are some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey past security:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.