Cheap Flights to Bakou from HK$731

Depending on where you're coming from, your flight to Bakou could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. We've put together some useful hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, credit cards and important medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a good read. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Last but not least, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

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

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and opt for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to slip on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be well organised before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Bakou in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, must also be separately scanned.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other bulky shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.