Flights to Deer Park, Chicago from NT$5,533

We've got the lowdown on how to make your flight as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be speeding through the airport and having a ball in Deer Park before you know it.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a few magazines. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The goal here is to make yourself as comfortable as you can. Layer up with loose, natural fibers and take a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin. Opt for roomy, flat shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell a little during the journey. Leave the stilettos and heavy hiking boots in your checked luggage.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. There are plenty of ways to lower your risk. Wear compression tights or socks, drink lots of water often and move your legs and feet. Do a lap or two of the cabin or perform some simple exercises in your seat.

The trick is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Deer Park in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, must also be scanned separately.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne or perfume? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you on board.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.