Carmel is served by just one airport, Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY).

MRY is close to the center of the city. You’ll find it only 8 kilometers from downtown Carmel.

People from across the globe pass through Monterey Regional Airport each day. Step off the plane, grab your luggage and you’ll find yourself 8 kilometers from the heart of Carmel.

With 4 airlines flying to Carmel from at least 8 airports around the globe, your ideal flight is just a few clicks away.

The majority of flights into Carmel are operated by American Airlines. The most preferred route is from Phoenix, and American Airlines flies this route the most often.

With roughly 86 nonstop flights operating every week, you’ll be landing in Carmel before you have time to say, “Are we there yet?”

The most popular flights to Carmel depart from Phoenix, Los Angeles and Dallas airports.

If it’s Phoenix you’re leaving behind, you’ll be midair for around 1 hour and 55 minutes before you arrive in Carmel. Airport to airport from Dallas typically takes 3 hours and 46 minutes and from Denver, the average flight time is 3 hours and 2 minutes.

We all know those fortunate jet-setters who manage to land wonderfully cheap fares wherever they go. Eager to know how to do it for your Carmel vacation? Don’t wait until the last possible moment to lock in your flight. Also, look around online and compare your options. If your destination has several airports, you may be able to pick up a terrific price by flying into a less busy terminal. Finally, be prepared to book quickly if you stumble on a great deal. It might not be available for too long! With a bit of knowledge and some good fortune, the ideal airfare will be yours.

If you’re not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But there’s no need to panic. Follow these helpful hints for a stress-free start to your time in Carmel.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you’ll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling book and a phone filled with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you intend to catch more than just forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also be useful. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you’ll arrive at your destination feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don’t have a Swiss Army knife lurking in your carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as bleach and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as you can. Dress in loose, natural fibers and remember to pack a cardigan in case it gets cold in the cabin. Opt for a pair of well-fitting, flat shoes as it’s possible that your feet and ankles will swell a little during the flight. Leave the stilettos and chunky boots in your main luggage.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-haul flights is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by prolonged inactivity. To avoid this, make the most of every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression tights and socks are also a great idea to help reduce this risk.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you arrive at airport security. That way, you’ll be stepping onto that plane to Carmel in next to no time. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Airport security personnel first need to see that you have a valid ID and matching boarding pass before you’re allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your belt, jacket and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don’t worry though, you’ll be back online before you know it.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne or perfume? No problem. As long as it’s in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it’s stored in a clear zip-close bag, it’s fine to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several minutes. Hiking boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed in the cabin. They’ll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.