Cheap Flights to Portland

We've got the lowdown on how to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and tricks and you'll be zooming through the airport and discovering Portland in no time at all. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, bank cards and important medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also wise to bring your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a clean T-shirt.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by donning layers, and opt for flat, closed-toe footwear like sneakers.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lessen your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks and do gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat.

The simple answer is — be prepared. We've compiled some tips and tricks for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Portland, here you come:

• Be sure to have your passport and travel documents within close reach. They'll be the first things you'll be asked to show at airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Don't forget to remove gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each item should be in a container 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 sensible footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.