Many visitors like to fly into Pudong Intl. Airport (PVG) when visiting the bustling city of Shanghai. However, there is more than one airport in the region, so keep that in mind when booking your flights.

Shanghai Pudong Airport is 32 kilometres from downtown Shanghai, so prepare yourself for a bit of a journey into the city centre.

Travellers heading to Shanghai can opt to hit the runway at two major airports. Shanghai Pudong Airport is 32 kilometres away from the centre of town. Shanghai Hongqiao Intl. Airport is 13 kilometres away.

Shanghai is serviced by 53 air carriers from at least 144 airports across the globe.

Shanghai receives the largest number of flights from China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines and Shenzhen Airlines with China Eastern Airlines being the favourite choice of carrier. Shenzhen is the most popular city for travellers to jet off from.

With 6,153 nonstop flights every week, you’ll be touching down in Shanghai before you can say, “Are we there yet?”

Flights to Shanghai departing from Shenzhen, Guangzhou and Beijing airports are always popular.

If it’s Shenzhen you’re leaving behind, you’ll be in the air for around 2 hours and 18 minutes before you arrive in Shanghai. Airport to airport from Guangzhou takes about 2 hours and 16 minutes and from Beijing, the flight time is 2 hours and 21 minutes.

We’ve all come across those lucky jet-setters who somehow score wonderfully cheap airfares whenever they fly. Want to know how to do it for your Shanghai holiday? Don’t leave it until the last possible moment to lock in your flight. Don’t stop there, however. Do some research and see if there is more than one airport at your destination. Fares often differ depending on which airport you go for. Don’t forget to compare prices across air carriers as well. Finally, be ready to secure your seat quickly if you find a great price. It might not be available for long. With a bit of know-how and a little good fortune, the ideal fare will be yours.

We’ve pulled together all the info you need to make your flight as pain-free as possible. Follow our insider tips and you’ll be speeding through airport security and enjoying Shanghai in next to no time.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It’s easy — first, put in your passport, important documents, bank cards and medications. Next, you’ll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy novel and a phone crammed with your favourite movies are always good options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you step off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don’t have sharp or pointed objects hiding in your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and matches, and gels and liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Layer up with comfy clothing and pack a cardigan as the temperature can drop in the cabin. Flat, enclosed shoes are also a good choice.
• Most travellers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. There are many ways to lower your risk. Wear a quality pair of compression socks, stay well hydrated and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Walk around the cabin when possible or perform some simple exercises in your seat.

Being prepared before your flight can make your getaway to Shanghai a breeze. Below you’ll find some handy hints for a swift journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you’ll be back online soon enough.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a single quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a practical footwear choice as you’re less likely to have to remove them when going through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won’t be allowed on board.