Flights to Paekakariki, Greater Wellington from NT$5,357

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be overwhelming. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints for a trouble-free start to your vacation in Paekakariki.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a stress-free experience if you pack the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare set of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, medications and maybe a proper neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure 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 a sharp object hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight often lies in your clothing choices. Prepare yourself for varying temperatures by bringing layers. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin gets chilly. Shoes like sandals and heels are best left for other occasions. Even though they may be your favorites, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will appreciate it.
• The condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Doing leg and foot exercises in your seat helps to prevent this from occurring. Wearing a quality pair of compression socks also helps reduce your risk.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Paekakariki in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them before your turn.
• All your electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo 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.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.