If you’re traveling by plane, you won’t have to think too long and hard about which airport to fly into. Cape Town has just one – Cape Town Intl. Airport (CPT).

If you’re staying in central Cape Town, it’s wise to arrange how you’ll get into the city before you touchdown. The downtown area is 18 kilometers from Cape Town Intl. Airport (CPT).

Located 18 kilometers from the downtown area, Cape Town Intl. Airport will likely be your first stop in Cape Town.

There are 25 air carriers that fly into Cape Town from 34 worldwide airports.

Cape Town receives the majority of its flights from Safair, Global Aviation and South African Airways with Safair being the number one choice of airline. Johannesburg is the most popular city for travelers to depart from.

Flying to somewhere new is much more fun when there aren’t any stopovers to worry about. If you’re traveling to Cape Town, the good news is that there are approximately 675 direct flights each week.

Travelers frequently jet off from Johannesburg, Gqeberha and Windhoek airports when heading to Cape Town.

Where you depart from determines how long you’ll be strapped into your seat. From Johannesburg to Cape Town, the average flight time is 2 hours and 11 minutes. From Durban North it’s roughly 2 hours and 21 minutes, and from Port Elizabeth it’s 1 hour and 25 minutes.

We’ve all come across those fortunate jet-setters who manage to nab extremely cheap fares every time they fly. Eager to know how to do it for your Cape Town vacation? Don’t wait until the last moment to lock in your flight. Also, shop around and compare your options. If your destination has multiple airports, you may be able to nab an excellent price by flying into one that’s farther away. And finally, don’t forget that it’s first in, best dressed. Know what a typical airfare costs and be ready to grab your ticket as soon as you see a great bargain. The sweetest deals don’t last long.

We’ve rounded up all the info you need to make your journey as pain-free as possible. Follow our insider tips and you’ll be zooming through airport security and seeing the best of Cape Town in no time flat.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack in your passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, you’ll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some great options. If you hope to catch forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you’ll arrive feeling fresh as a daisy.

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 avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, fireworks and fuel. Sporting equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, won’t be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to make yourself as comfortable as you can. Layer up in natural fibers and bring a cardigan in case you get cold. Always go with flat, well-fitting shoes as your feet may swell during the flight. Leave the high heels and heavy boots in your checked luggage.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. The good news is there are numerous ways to significantly reduce the risk of developing it. Stay hydrated, get up and walk around the cabin as much as possible and wear compression tights or socks.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to airport security. That way, you’ll be boarding that plane to Cape Town in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Have your passport and boarding pass handy. They’re the first items you’ll be asked for by security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your earphones, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them before your turn.
• For just a few minutes, you’ll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics will also need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it’s stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren’t.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won’t be allowed in the cabin.