Flights to Opua, Northland from NT$18,943

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Opua could be a piece of cake or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some handy travel tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free flight experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a good book. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfortable clothing and choose shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to walk around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We've rounded up some top tips for a stress-free trip through airport security. Look out Opua, here you come:

• Your passport and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.