Cheap Flights to New Plymouth Airport from HK$5,604

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to New Plymouth Airport could be no sweat at all or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some useful hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favourite shows are some great options. If you plan to catch forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items so you'll touchdown looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as spray paint, flares and poisons, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by wearing layers, and opt for closed-toe, flat footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Try to wander around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The secret is to be organised before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to New Plymouth Airport before you know it. Follow these helpful tips and get your holiday off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Travelling with a new perfume? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Boots and other bulky shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.