Flights to Hines, Chicago from NT$8,247

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. Take a peek at these handy hints that will help get your Hines escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack your passport, travel documents, wallet and daily medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are some wonderful options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a few toiletry items to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Hines a breeze. We've compiled some useful tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked luggage.