Cheap Flights to Porto

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your flight as stress-free as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be cruising through airport security and discovering Porto in no time flat. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First things first, pack in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, you'll want some in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are some great options. If you plan to take a short nap, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you'll arrive feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Pick easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a sweater in case you get chilly in the cabin.
• Most travellers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've put together some helpful hints for a speedy trip through security. Look out Porto, here you come:

• First things first. Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't have to dig around for them.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your jacket, belt and headphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your laptop and phone, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.