Cheap Flights to Shymkent from HK$2,135

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Shymkent could be simple and straightforward or it could drag on forever. Below are some handy travel tips that will help you start your next big adventure on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's simple — first, put in your passport, important documents, wallet and vital medications. Next, you'll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a phone filled with your favourite shows are always good options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a few toiletry items to ensure you arrive at your destination feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don't have sharp or pointed objects hiding in one of the zippers of your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable goods, such as bleach and fuel, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by wearing layers, and pick slightly roomy, flat footwear like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

It's all about being organised. We've pulled together some helpful hints for a hassle-free trip through security. Watch out Shymkent, here you come:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be presented to security personnel. Have them close by so you don't hold up the line.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will need to go through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you need to bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked luggage.