Cheap Flights to Varanasi from HK$358

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Varanasi could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. Here are some handy tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Flying can be a great experience if you take the right things. Firstly, you'll want some toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare set of clothes and a good novel. Secondly, leave space in your bag for your phone and charger, any daily medications and maybe a cosy neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to take your passport, travel documents and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Pointed or sharp objects, like your beloved pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and strong acids, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes in the cabin by layering up, and opt for flat, enclosed footwear like slip-ons.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks or tights.

The answer is simple — be organised. We've rounded up some handy tips and tricks for a speedy trip through security. Look out Varanasi, here you come:

• Have your ID and boarding pass easily accessible. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Travelling with your favourite hand and nail cream? No problem. 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 can keep it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, put them in your checked baggage.