Flights to Christchurch, England from NT$5,979

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're prepared. Take a peek at these essential travel tips that will help get your Christchurch vacation started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, cash and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like your laptop or a good book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, be sure to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, 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:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to bring a jacket in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

A little pre-planning before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Christchurch easy and painless. Read through our handy hints for a stress-free journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Have them ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.