Cheap Flights to Kashgar from HK$1,612

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Kashgar could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. Here are some useful tips that will help you start your next great adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a comfortable experience if you take the right stuff. First of all you'll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a spare change of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your mobile phone, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a cosy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to take your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have a pocket knife hiding in the bottom of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable products, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Loose, breathable clothing is a wise option, as are roomy, closed-toe shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some gentle exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

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

• Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be presented to airport security. Keep them someplace accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Items such as your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your laptop and phone, will also need to be scanned.
• Travelling with your favourite cologne? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, you're permitted to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.