Cheap Flights to Porto-Novo from HK$4,034

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Porto-Novo could be completely painless or it could drag on forever. Here are some 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 a stress-free travel experience is to plan ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a magazine. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of headphones. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a fresh change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and guns, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, breathable clothing and remember to take a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Most travellers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

It's easy — be prepared. We've pulled together some helpful hints for a speedy trip through security. Watch out Porto-Novo, here you come:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.