Flights to Takanini, Auckland from NT$4,544

If you're not prepared, traveling can be overwhelming. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a pleasant start to your getaway in Takanini. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a thrilling novel. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, be sure to pop in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Takanini in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Have your ID and travel documents within easy reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• There's a good chance you'll be asked to remove your shoes to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.