Cheap Flights to Portal from HK$2,017

If you're not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a hassle-free start to your time in Portal. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It's easy — first, pack your passport, official ID, wallet and medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A juicy book and a phone crammed with your favourite shows are good options. If you hope to catch up on some sleep, a neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you touchdown looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Choose comfort over style. Prepare for temperature changes by layering up, and pick flat, slightly roomy footwear like sneakers.
• You've probably heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. To minimize your risk on board, stay hydrated, consider wearing compression tights or socks and move your lower limbs often.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Portal quick and painless. Below you'll find some useful tips and tricks for a speedy journey past security:

• Airport security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Keep them close by.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic devices will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be in a container 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 a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked bags.