Flights to Des Plaines, Chicago from NT$4,223

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as stress-free as possible. Follow our insider tips and you'll be zooming through the airport and seeing the best of Des Plaines in no time flat. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic devices or a good read. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and strong acids, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart choice, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Des Plaines before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, check them in.