Flights to Hot Water Beach, Waikato from NT$12,094

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Hot Water Beach could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've compiled some useful hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you've got all the right gear. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a good book. Secondly, make room in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, your medications and maybe a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to feel as comfortable as possible. Opt for a pair of flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

The trick is to be well organized before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Hot Water Beach in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.