Cheap Flights to Porto do Son from HK$1,766

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Porto do Son could be simple and straightforward or it could go on forever. Here are some useful travel tips that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a cruisy experience if you carry the right gear. First things first, you'll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and something to read. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any medications and maybe a proper neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, drills, fuel and fireworks. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could injure passengers, such as swords and batons, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Wear layers and go for shoes that are closed-toe, flat and easy to take on and off.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to improve your circulation.

The trick is to be well prepared before you reach airport security. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Porto do Son in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a spectacular start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you're allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic devices must also go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are prohibited in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.