Flights to Crows Nest, Queensland from NT$15,684

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be overwhelming. But there's no need to panic. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your vacation in Crows Nest. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First of all, pack your passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a phone filled with your favorite shows are some fantastic options. If you hope to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and pick closed-toe, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• You're probably aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your lower limbs often.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Crows Nest a piece of cake. Read through our top tips for a speedy journey through security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.