Flights to Waitao, Bay of Plenty Region from NT$39,117

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a comfortable start to your getaway in Waitao.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, cash and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could injure passengers, such as guns and swords, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be your highest priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Consider your choice of footwear with care too, as swollen feet are quite common. Roomy, closed-toed shoes are always a good idea.
• A serious condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation. Walking up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises in your seat helps to prevent this from happening. Wearing a good pair of compression socks or tights may also help.

The secret is to be prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Waitao before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.