Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY) is the only airport serving Big Sur.

Monterey Regional Airport is the main airport in Big Sur. Before you step on the plane, it’s a good idea to find out a little about it. The terminal sits about 64 kilometers from the center of town.

You have a couple of options if you’re heading to Big Sur. Choose from 4 airlines that service the city from at least 8 airports across the globe.

Flights into Big Sur are typically run by American Airlines. The largest proportion of these flights jet off from Phoenix, with American Airlines servicing this route the most often.

With around 86 nonstop flights every week, you’ll be arriving in Big Sur before you have time to say, “Are we there yet?”

Flights to Big Sur from Phoenix, Los Angeles and Dallas airports are the most popular.

If you’re flying to Big Sur from Phoenix, you’re looking at a flight duration of 1 hour and 55 minutes. Those setting off from Dallas can expect to be traveling for 3 hours and 46 minutes. From Denver it’s roughly 3 hours and 2 minutes away.

If you want to have some extra spending money on your Big Sur vacation, listen up! As every seasoned jet-setter will tell you, don’t leave booking until the last minute. Prices are usually highest close to the departure date. Also, do some online research and compare your options. If your destination has multiple airports, you may be able to pick up a terrific deal by flying into one that’s farther away. Last of all, be ready to secure your seat quickly if you stumble on a great deal. It might not be available for long! With a bit of know-how and some luck, the ideal airfare will be yours.

If you’re not prepared, air travel can be a real challenge. But there’s no need to panic. Follow these handy hints for a pleasant start to your getaway in Big Sur.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a cruisy experience if you’ve got all the right gear. Firstly, you’ll need toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh change of clothes and something to read. Next, leave space in your carry-on bag for your electronic devices, chargers, any medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don’t have a Swiss Army knife lurking in your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, like aerosols and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight is as simple as your choice of clothing. Prepare yourself for varying temperatures by bringing layers. That way you’ll stay nice and warm if the cabin begins to cool down. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left in your suitcase. Instead, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will appreciate it.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that can affect passengers on long-haul flights. The great news is there are numerous ways to reduce the risk of developing it. Drink plenty of water, wander through the cabin as much as you can and wear compression tights or socks.

Being organized before you get to the airport can make your trip to Big Sur a breeze. Below you’ll find some useful tips and tricks for a swift journey through security:

• Have your ID and boarding pass within close reach. They’re the first items you’ll be asked to show at security.
• Time to strip down. Well sort of. Your coat, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you’ll be back online before you know it.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you’re less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy-style shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items can’t be taken on board. They’ll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.