Flights to Lansing, Chicago from NT$6,255

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well organized. Follow these top travel tips that will get your Lansing escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an amazing travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've pulled together some tips and tricks for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Lansing, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner 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-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.