Flights to Monowai, Southland from NT$26,215

If you're not prepared, air travel can be testing. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a trouble-free start to your time in Monowai. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack in advance. Start with the essentials: passport, official ID, bank cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like ski poles, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by wearing layers, and opt for flat, enclosed footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before your flight can make your trip to Monowai a piece of cake. We've compiled some handy tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Keep your travel documents and ID within close reach. They're the first items you'll be asked for by security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne or perfume? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a zip-lock bag, it's fine to bring with you on board.
• The right choice of footwear can save you 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 sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.