Flights to Thames, Waikato from NT$5,261

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

• The secret to having a great travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, cash and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a good read. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean 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 or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort really should be your main priority when picking what to wear during your flight. Consider your choice of footwear with care too, as swollen feet are a common occurrence. Roomy, closed-toed shoes are your best bet.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. But the great news is there are ways to reduce your risk of developing it. Stay well hydrated, walk around the cabin as much as you can and wear compression socks to help improve your circulation.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Thames easy and painless. We've compiled some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers usually aren't.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.