Flights to Lake Tekapo, Canterbury from NT$2,576

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Lake Tekapo could be completely stress-free or it could go on forever. Here are some tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an amazing travel experience is to be prepared. Start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a thrilling novel. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and poisons, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to take a jacket in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your getaway to Lake Tekapo a breeze. We've compiled some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like coins, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can keep it with you on board.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.