Flights to Te Mata, Waikato from NT$12,193

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Te Mata could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've compiled some handy hints that will help you start your next big adventure on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a great experience if you bring the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want a few basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a good book. Next, leave space in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, your medications and perhaps a neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to make yourself as comfortable as you can. Dress in loose, natural-fiber clothing and take a pullover in case it gets cool in the cabin. Go for a pair of roomy, flat shoes as your feet may swell during the journey. Leave the high heels and heavy boots in your checked luggage.
• A condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-distance flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation. Walking around the cabin and doing regular leg and foot exercises in your seat helps to prevent this from happening. Wearing a pair of compression socks is also a wise idea.

Being organized before your flight will make your trip to Te Mata a pleasure. We've rounded up some handy hints for a stress-free journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets must also be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. 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-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.