Flights to Fiordland National Park, Southland from NT$5,303

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've planned ahead. Check out these handy hints that will help get your Fiordland National Park vacation started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, put in your passport, travel documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are some great options. If you plan to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of a plane are not the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and remember to take a cardigan as it tends to get cool inside the cabin during long-haul flights. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are also a good choice.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long flights is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity. To prevent this from happening, take every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression tights and socks are also a great idea to help reduce this risk.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Fiordland National Park in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Be sure to have your boarding pass and ID at hand. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked bags.