Flights to Whitianga, Waikato from NT$5,488

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Whitianga could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some handy hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right things. Firstly, you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a spare pair of socks and a magazine or two. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, your medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuels and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your top priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

It's simple — be prepared. We've compiled some helpful hints for an easy trip through airport security. Watch out Whitianga, here you come:

• First things first. Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.