Cheap Flights to Portland

Depending on where you're coming from, your journey to Portland could be completely painless or it could go on forever. Below are some handy hints that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you take the right things. First of all you'll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh change of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, find room in your bag for your mobile phone, a charger, your medications and maybe a cozy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, chemicals agents and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Don layers of breathable clothing and remember to bring a sweater just in case you get chilly. Opt for a pair of roomy, flat shoes as your feet may swell during the flight. Leave the high heels and hiking boots in your checked baggage.
• The condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation. Walking around the cabin and doing regular foot and leg exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this happening. Wearing a good pair of compression socks is also recommended.

It's all about being prepared. We've pulled together some handy tips and tricks for a fuss-free trip through airport security. Look out Portland, here you come:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be presented to security personnel. Keep them handy so you don't hold up the line.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might trigger the alarms. Items like your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren't.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.