Cheap Flights to Samarkand from HK$1,365

Depending on where you're coming from, your trip to Samarkand could be a breeze or it could go on forever. We've put together some handy tips that will help you start your next great adventure on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having an awesome flight experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like your laptop or a thrilling novel. You'll also want to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, deodorant and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear on your flight. Loose clothing is a smart option, as are flat, enclosed shoes.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

Being organised before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Samarkand a piece of cake. Check out our handy tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics must also go through the scanner.
• Remove all liquids and gels from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit inside a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, put them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed on board.