Flights to Libertyville, Chicago from NT$19,194

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Libertyville. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, put in your passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are good options. If you intend to take a short snooze, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you touchdown looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

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

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main concern when deciding what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

It's easy — be prepared. We've rounded up some tips and tricks for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Libertyville, here you come:

• Your travel documents and ID will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.