If you’re arriving by plane, you won’t have to think too long and hard about which airport to fly into. Durham has just one – Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT).

The journey between Manchester Airport and downtown Durham is reasonably long. You’ll need to travel 48 kilometers before you can check in to your city hotel.

Make your way through the exit doors of Manchester Airport and your Durham trip will have begun! The city’s main airport, it’s located 48 kilometers from the downtown area.

There are 4 airlines that service the route to Durham. These jet in from at least 10 airports across the world.

Flights to Durham are typically operated by Southwest Airlines. The largest proportion of these flights take off from Baltimore, with Southwest Airlines servicing this route the most often.

With approximately 142 direct flights running every week, you’ll be hitting the runway in Durham before you have time to say, “Are we there yet?”

Travelers often depart from Baltimore, Charlotte and Philadelphia airports when heading to Durham.

If it’s Baltimore you’re departing, you’ll be in the sky for around 1 hour and 24 minutes before you arrive in Durham. Terminal to terminal from Philadelphia generally takes 1 hour and 25 minutes and from Washington, the flight time is 1 hour and 36 minutes.

We all know those jet-setters who somehow score super cheap fares whenever they fly. Would you like to know how to do it for your Durham vacation? Don’t leave it until the last moment to secure your flight. Also, look around online and compare your options. If your destination has a few airports, you may be able to nab a better price by flying into one a little farther out. Lastly, another easy way to save some money is be ready to book fast. If you see a fantastic bargain, don’t hesitate — grab it while you’ve got the chance.

We’ve rounded up all the info you need to make your flight a pleasant experience. Follow our insider tips and you’ll be zooming through the airport and seeing the best of Durham before you know it.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, put in your passport, travel documents, credit cards and medications. Next, you’ll want some extra in-flight entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling book and a phone filled with your favorite movies are good options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes so you’ll step off the plane looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won’t be allowed on. Sharp objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and matches, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The best way to ensure a comfortable flight can be as simple as the clothes you wear. Prepare yourself for varying temperatures by bringing layers. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin begins to cool down. Shoes like flip flops and heels are best left in your suitcase. Instead, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like slip-ons. Your feet will thank you for it.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. The good news is there are proven ways to significantly reduce the risk of developing it. Keep your fluids up, wander around the cabin as much as possible and wear compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The trick is to be prepared before you reach the security gate. That way, you’ll be boarding that plane to Durham in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport easily accessible. They’ll be the first things you’ll be asked to present to airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings such as your belt, jacket and headphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you’ll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There’s a chance you’ll need to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• 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 luggage. They won’t be allowed in the cabin.