Cheap Flights to Mount Cook Village from HK$1,104

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Mount Cook Village could be completely stress-free or it could go on forever. We've compiled some useful travel tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are some wonderful options. If you plan to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave space for a few toiletry items so you'll hop off the plane feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have a pocket knife hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to feel as comfortable as you can. Opt for flat, closed-toe shoes, dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to bring a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

It's all about being organised. We've rounded up some helpful hints for a speedy trip through airport security. Watch out Mount Cook Village, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to make sure that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items like your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, 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), zip-lock bag.
• There's a good chance you'll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked luggage.