Cheap Flights to Waitomo Caves from HK$1,185

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you're prepared. Take a peek at these handy hints that will get your Waitomo Caves vacation started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, official ID, cash and daily medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a phone crammed with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like ice skates, and items that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, aren't allowed in the cabin either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your number one priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Layer up with loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a cardigan in case it gets cold in the cabin. Always go with flat, slightly roomy shoes as it's possible that your feet and ankles will swell a little during the flight. Leave the stilettos and hiking boots in your main luggage.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that can affect passengers during long flights. But the good news is there are ways to reduce the risk of developing it. Stay well hydrated, walk up and down the aisles as often as possible and wear compression tights or socks.

A little pre-planning before your flight can make your trip to Waitomo Caves easy and painless. We've rounded up some top tips for a swift journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before anything else. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. Don't worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Don't forget to remove liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They often 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.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked luggage.