Flights to Kaikōura, Canterbury from NT$26,984

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you're prepared. We've put together a list of handy hints that will get your Kaikōura escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, cash and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a good read. You'll also want to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, 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:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your beloved Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and pick easy-to-remove footwear like slip-ons.
• 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.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Kaikōura in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes 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 baggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.