Flights to Crystal Lake, Illinois from NT$8,243

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a worry-free start to your getaway in Crystal Lake. 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 basics: passport, travel docs, cash and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, fuel and fireworks. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

Being organized before your flight will help make your getaway to Crystal Lake a breeze. We've compiled some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked bags.