Flights to Taupo Bay, Northland from NT$36,791

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you've prepared well. We've put together a list of essential travel tips that will get your Taupo Bay escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, important documents, cash and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favorite movies are always good options. If you hope to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive at your destination looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by dressing in layers, and wear slightly roomy, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

Being organized before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Taupo Bay a piece of cake. We've compiled some handy hints for a stress-free journey through security:

• Your travel documents and passport will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Items such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each product should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.