Flights to Cicero, Indianapolis from NT$27,193

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be daunting. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Cicero. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack in advance. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Finally, be sure to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and poisons, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Cicero in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic gadgets will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume or cologne? No 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, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items like knives are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked bags.