Flights to Karaka, Auckland from NT$20,740

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Karaka could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. We've rounded up some useful hints that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare pair of socks and a good read. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your mobile phone, a charger, any vital medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of your plane are not the place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and bring a cardigan as it tends to get cool inside the cabin. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are always a good choice too.
• A condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation. Walking up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises in your seat helps to prevent this happening. Wearing a good pair of compression socks also helps reduce the risk.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Karaka in no time flat. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.