Flights to Dunedin, Otago from NT$5,913

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a pleasant start to your time in Dunedin. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, boarding pass, credit cards and medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic devices or a good book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare set 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 guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear during your flight. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

Being prepared before your flight will help make your getaway to Dunedin easy and painless. Here are some handy tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Can't travel without your favorite cologne or perfume? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you're allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• There's a possibility that you'll need to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.