Flights to Rock Island, Illinois from NT$8,181

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've planned ahead. Check out these handy tips that will get your Rock Island escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, official ID, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you intend to catch a few z's, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a few toiletry items so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

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

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and go for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Rock Island in no time flat. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a smart idea.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked luggage.