Flights to Waikawa, Southland from NT$6,177

If you're poorly prepared, traveling can be challenging. But there's no need to panic. Follow these tips and tricks and enjoy a pleasant start to your time in Waikawa. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you bring the right stuff. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare set of clothes and a good book. Secondly, find room in your bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by wearing layers, and opt for flat, easy-to-remove shoes like slip-ons.
• 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, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being prepared before your flight can make your getaway to Waikawa a pleasure. Read through our useful tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray 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.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.