Flights to Sa Pa, Lao Cai Province from NT$4,019

If you’re traveling by air, you won’t have to ponder too long which airport to fly into. Sa Pa has just one – Noi Bai Intl. Airport (HAN).

There are 30 air carriers that service Sa Pa from 62 airports across the globe.

In general, travelers choose to fly with Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air and Bamboo Airways when heading to Sa Pa. The largest number of these flights depart from Ho Chi Minh City, with Vietnam Airlines flying this route the most.

With roughly 1,757 nonstop flights operating every week, you’ll be landing in Sa Pa before you can ask, “Are we there yet?”

Travelers frequently jet off from Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and Bangkok airports when heading to Sa Pa.

If you’re flying to Sa Pa from Ho Chi Minh City, you’re looking at a flight time of 2 hours and 11 minutes. Those departing from Da Nang should expect to be airborne for around 1 hour and 23 minutes. From Duong Dong it’s approximately 2 hours and 6 minutes away.

If you’d like to have some extra spending money on your trip to Sa Pa, listen up! As any experienced traveler knows, don’t leave booking until the last minute. Fares are usually highest close to the departure date. Also, do some online research and compare your options. If your destination has several airports, you may be able to pick up an excellent deal by flying into one that’s farther away. Last but not least, another easy way to save some money is be ready to book fast. If you stumble on a fantastic deal, don’t hesitate — grab it while you can.

Depending on where you’re coming from, your trip to Sa Pa could be a breeze or it could go on forever. We’ve rounded up some useful hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a comfortable experience if you take the right gear. Firstly, you’ll want a few basic toiletries, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a few magazines. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your important medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, won’t be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear during your flight. Consider your footwear carefully too, as swollen ankles and feet are a common occurrence. Roomy, closed-toed shoes are always a sensible way to go.
• You’ve probably heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by reduced mobility or inactivity. There are plenty of ways to lessen your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression socks or tights, stay well hydrated and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Wander around the cabin or perform some stretches in your seat.

It’s simple — be prepared. We’ve pulled together some helpful hints for a speedy trip through airport security. Look out Sa Pa, here you come:

• Your boarding pass and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don’t hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to set off the scanner’s alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They’ll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you’ll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or toothpaste, 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-lock bag.
• There’s a possibility that you’ll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) are not allowed on board. They’ll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.