Flights to Kawaihae, Kamuela from NT$16,614

If you're poorly prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a comfortable start to your getaway in Kawaihae. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack in your passport, travel docs, cash and medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite movies are some fantastic options. If you intend to take a quick snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll step off the plane looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your number one priority when choosing what to wear on board. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise choice, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

The secret is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Kawaihae in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp or pointed items are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.