Flights to Independence, Andover from NT$25,437

If you're not prepared, traveling can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pain-free start to your time in Independence. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by staying hydrated, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Independence a breeze. Check out our handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.