Flights to Motutapu Island, Auckland from NT$5,901

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're well organized. Take a peek at these handy hints that will get your Motutapu Island vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, boarding pass, bank cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a good book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Go for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Wander around the cabin and stretch your legs or do some gentle exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

Being organized before you arrive at the airport can make your getaway to Motutapu Island a piece of cake. We've rounded up some top tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and ID within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, must also be separately scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives to come on board with you. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.