Flights to Pukekohe East, Auckland from NT$5,587

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a worry-free start to your time in Pukekohe East. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, pack your passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a tablet crammed with your favorite shows are some terrific options. If you plan to catch a few z's, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and fuels, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and go for shoes that are roomy, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

It's all about being prepared. We've pulled together some top tips for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Watch out Pukekohe East, here you come:

• Have your passport and travel documents handy. They'll be the first things you'll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other items in your pocket, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics must also go through the scanner.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.