Flights to Minonk, Illinois from NT$16,325

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Minonk. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a comfortable experience if you carry the right stuff. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and something to read. Next, find a spot in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to take your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Minonk a breeze. Check out our handy tips for a swift journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass close by. They're the first things you'll be asked for by airport security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.