Flights to Gladstone, Greater Wellington from NT$28,013

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to panic. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pain-free start to your vacation in Gladstone. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a cruisy experience if you take the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a clean set of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, make room in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any daily medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and wear flat, enclosed shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Gladstone in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Have your boarding pass and passport easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on baggage.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.