Flights to Phoenix, Chicago from NT$25,339

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've planned ahead. Follow these handy hints that will get your Phoenix vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, put in your passport, important documents, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you intend to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and poisons, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

A little pre-planning before your flight can make your getaway to Phoenix quick and painless. We've compiled some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring 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.
• There's a chance you'll be asked to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.