Flights to Taieri Beach, Otago from NT$6,278

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be tough. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a hassle-free start to your vacation in Taieri Beach. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you take the right gear. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a good read. Next, leave space in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any vital medications and perhaps a neck pillow too. Lastly, be sure to take your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a sharp object lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include flammable or explosive substances, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by dressing in layers, and wear slightly roomy, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot 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.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some useful tips for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Watch out Taieri Beach, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• It's also likely that you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.