Cheap Flights to Lower Hutt from HK$288

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well enough. We've put together a list of handy travel tips that will help get your Lower Hutt escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having an awesome travel experience is to plan ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, official ID, cash and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic devices or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Finally, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) won't be allowed on. Pointed or sharp objects, like your treasured Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, bleaching agents and fuels, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when choosing what to wear on your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a sensible option, as are flat, slightly roomy shoes.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of inactivity. To lessen your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

It's all about being prepared. We've rounded up some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through airport security. Look out Lower Hutt, here you come:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as your coat or jacket. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.