Flights to Long Grove, Chicago from NT$5,715

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a trouble-free start to your getaway in Long Grove. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a comfortable experience if you carry the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a few magazines. Next, find room in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your important medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive 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 airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to pull on and off.
• The result of sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your ankles and legs moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Long Grove in no time at all. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronics must also go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Sharp items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked bags.