Cheap Flights to Wānaka from HK$449

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be hightailing it through the airport and having a blast in Wānaka in no time at all. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a tablet filled with your favourite movies are some fantastic options. If you plan to catch forty winks, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive at your destination looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp or pointed objects lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable goods, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by dressing in layers, and wear slightly roomy, flat shoes like slip-ons.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To reduce your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your legs and feet often.

It's all about being prepared. We've pulled together some top tips for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Wānaka, here you come:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be shown to airport security. Keep them at hand so you don't hold up the queue.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
• Can't travel without your favourite hand and nail cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.