Cheap Flights to Taumarunui from HK$1,288

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're well organised. We've put together a list of top travel tips that will help get your Taumarunui escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a pleasure if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and something to read. Secondly, leave space in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and flares. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm passengers, such as firearms and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to take a jacket in case it gets cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It results from 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 you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Taumarunui easy and painless. Here are some useful tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them at hand to avoid fumbling around for them.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will also need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.