Flights to Niles, Chicago from NT$8,117

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you've prepared well. We've put together a list of handy tips and tricks that will get your Niles vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you take the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare set of clothes and something to read. Next, find room in your bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to take your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and poisons, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Pick a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a jacket in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The trick is to be prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Niles in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and passport within easy reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often 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 quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.