Cheap Flights to Jalal-Abad from HK$2,379

If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy hints and enjoy a hassle-free start to your time in Jalal-Abad. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a hassle-free travel experience is to pack in advance. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic devices or a thrilling book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to squeeze in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a sensible choice, as are flat, closed-toe shoes.
• Most of us have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression tights or socks and keep your legs and feet moving.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport can make your trip to Jalal-Abad easy and painless. We've compiled some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey through security:

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, coat, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, must also be separately scanned.
• Can't travel without your favourite perfume? Not a problem. As long as it's in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you on board.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines won't allow any pocket knives or other sharp items to come on board with you. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.