Flights to Mount Carmel, Illinois from NT$47,480

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be challenging. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your vacation in Mount Carmel. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a pleasure if you take the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a clean set of clothes and a few magazines. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, any medications and maybe a quality neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosols and matches, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Choose flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

The trick is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Mount Carmel in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and ID will need to be presented to airport security. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items like your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.