Always opt for a porch gate (or deck gate) that swings in, not out. While outward may seem a sensible option, it poses both logistical problems and safety hazards. Silly as that might sound, it’s better to have control and swing the gate towards you vs. towards someone who could be headed up the steps. Your hinges should be on both sides: something important to mind if you’re leaning towards a DIY project. Large gates in driveways, especially automated ones, may swing outward, but this is a very different situation.