Flights to Medinah, Chicago from NT$19,516

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your getaway in Medinah. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you bring the right stuff. First of all you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your phone and charger, medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane are no place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and pick shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

Being prepared before your flight will help make your trip to Medinah a pleasure. Below you'll find some top tips for a swift journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can't be taken on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.