Flights to Ashburton, Canterbury from NT$4,213

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you prepare well enough. We've put together a list of essential travel tips that will help get your Ashburton escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack your passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a tablet filled with your favorite shows are always good options. If you hope to take a quick snooze, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you'll arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a smart option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will make your trip to Ashburton a breeze. We've compiled some useful tips and tricks for a stress-free journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There's a possibility that you'll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.