Flights to Cardrona, Otago from NT$4,370

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips for a pain-free start to your time in Cardrona. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a stress-free experience if you've got all the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh set of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, find a spot in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and fuels, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up, and wear easy-to-remove shoes like sneakers.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Cardrona in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will need to go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.