Flights to Komata, Waikato from NT$21,078

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a worry-free start to your vacation in Komata. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, travel documents, wallet and medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some great options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you step off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a sharp object hiding in the bottom of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of a plane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and go for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to slip on and off.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We've put together some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free trip through security. Watch out Komata, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid ID and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked baggage.