Flights to Tampico, Illinois from NT$46,526

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Tampico could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some useful hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack your passport, travel documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, you'll need some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are good options. If you hope to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

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 one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and wear closed-toe, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Tampico before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Can't travel without your favorite hand cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.