Flights to Palmerston, Minto from NT$13,478

If you're not prepared, air travel can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a hassle-free start to your vacation in Palmerston. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a hassle-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, bank cards and daily medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a good read. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Opt for slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater 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. Try to walk around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Palmerston in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne or perfume? 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, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.