Flights to Red Bud, Illinois from NT$5,282

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation in Red Bud.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like your laptop or a juicy novel. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The goal here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Layer yourself up in breathable clothing and pack a sweater in case it gets cool in the cabin. Pick flat, slightly roomy shoes as your feet may swell during the journey. Leave the stilettos and hiking boots in your luggage.
• The condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Walking up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises in your seat helps to prevent this developing. Wearing a pair of compression socks can also help.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Red Bud in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Have them easily accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics also need to go through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.