Flights to Itasca, Chicago from NT$19,512

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. Follow these essential travel tips that will help get your Itasca escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic devices or a magazine. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a sharp object lurking in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and go for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your lower limbs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

The answer is simple — be prepared. We've put together some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through security. Watch out Itasca, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often 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 in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.