Cheap Flights to Whangamata from HK$1,285

If you're not prepared, travelling can be testing. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips for a trouble-free start to your getaway in Whangamata. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you pack the right things. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and something to read. Next, leave space in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, your important medications and perhaps a cosy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to take your passport, travel docs and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hair gel in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and fuels, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by layering up, and wear flat, closed-toe footwear like slip-ons.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect passengers during long flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your feet and legs moving and wearing compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will make your trip to Whangamata easy and painless. We've rounded up some handy tips for a speedy journey past security:

• Be sure to keep your boarding pass and ID within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Want to bring along your favourite cologne? 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 fine to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.