Flights to El Arenal, Jalisco from NT$39,883

El Arenal is served by a single airport, Don Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Intl. Airport (GDL).

The trip between GDL and downtown El Arenal is fairly long. You’ll need to travel 48 kilometers before you can check in to your city hotel.

With only one main airport servicing El Arenal, it won’t take much time to discover the best flight. You’ll be jetting off to Don Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Intl. Airport (GDL), which sits around 48 kilometers from downtown.

There are 12 air carriers connecting El Arenal with 57 airports across the world.

In general, travelers opt to fly with Aeromexico, Volaris and VivaAerobus when heading off to El Arenal. The largest number of these flights arrive from Villa Coapa, with Aeromexico servicing this route the most frequently.

With 1,119 direct flights every week, you’ll be hitting the runway in El Arenal before you can ask, “Are we there yet?”

Flights to El Arenal from Mexico City, Tijuana and Mexicali airports are always popular.

Which airport you depart from determines how much of the in-flight entertainment you’ll get to see. From Mexico City to El Arenal, the average flight time is 1 hour and 25 minutes. From Tijuana it’s more like 2 hours and 52 minutes, and from Los Angeles it’s 3 hours and 8 minutes.

We’ve all come across those travelers who manage to score impossibly cheap fares every time they fly. Want to know how to do it for your El Arenal vacation? Don’t wait until the very last minute to lock in your flight. Another excellent way to get an unbeatable deal is to shop around. If where you’re headed has several airports, be sure to look into the cost of flying into a less busy terminal. Finally, another simple way to save a few dollars is be ready to book fast. If you find a terrific bargain, don’t hesitate — grab it while you can.

If you’re not prepared, airports and flying can be challenging. But don’t hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a hassle-free start to your vacation in El Arenal.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It’s simple — first, put in your passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, you’ll want some entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy book and a phone filled with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you intend to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you arrive looking fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, won’t be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort really should be your priority when selecting what to wear on board. Consider your footwear with care too, as swollen feet and ankles are a common occurrence. Flat shoes which are slightly roomy are always a smart option.
• A serious condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It’s the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation. Walking around the cabin and doing regular leg and foot exercises in your seat is a great way to prevent this occurring. Wearing a high-quality pair of compression socks or tights may also help.

It’s simple — be prepared. We’ve pulled together some useful tips for an easy trip through security. Watch out El Arenal, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and matching travel documents before you’re allowed to proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Personal belongings such as your coat, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All your electronics, including your phone and laptop, must also be scanned.
• Can’t travel without your favorite cologne? 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, you’re allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. 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 luggage. They won’t be allowed on board.