Cheap Flights to Wellington from HK$1,588

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you've prepared well. Take a peek at these top travel tips that will help get your Wellington escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be easy if you carry the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletry items, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a magazine or two. Next, leave space in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, your medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and go for shoes that are enclosed, flat and easy to pull on and off.
• Most travellers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To reduce your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and move your legs and feet often.

It's easy — be prepared. We've put together some helpful hints for a stress-free trip through security. Watch out Wellington, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, must also be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.