If you’re traveling by air, you won’t have to ponder too long which airport to choose. Shenzhen has just one – Shenzhen Intl. Airport (SZX).

Shenzhen Intl. Airport is 32 kilometers from downtown Shenzhen, so prepare yourself for a decent commute into the city.

Situated 32 kilometers from the downtown area, Shenzhen Intl. Airport (SZX) is your entry point to Shenzhen.

Shenzhen is serviced by 32 air carriers from 99 worldwide airports.

China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines and Shenzhen Airlines fly the most frequently to Shenzhen. The highest number of flights come in from Shanghai, with China Southern Airlines having the most services on this route.

Flying to someplace new is much simpler when there aren’t any stopovers involved. If you’re making your way to Shenzhen, the fantastic news is that there are approximately 3,212 direct flights operating every week.

Flights to Shenzhen from Shanghai, Hangzhou and Beijing airports are always popular.

Which airport you depart from determines how much of the in-flight entertainment you’ll get to enjoy. From Shanghai to Shenzhen, the average flight time is 2 hours and 40 minutes. From Hangzhou it’s more or less 2 hours and 19 minutes, and from Beijing it’s 3 hours and 32 minutes.

If you want to have some extra spending money on your trip to Shenzhen, listen up! As every experienced jet-setter will tell you, don’t book at the very last minute. Fares are often highest just prior to the departure date. Another terrific way to grab a bargain is to compare all options. If where you’re headed has a few airports, don’t forget to research the cost of flying into a smaller terminal. Last of all, another easy way to save a few dollars is be ready to book fast. If you come across an amazing bargain, don’t hold off — grab it while the opportunity’s there.

No matter where you’re coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you’ve prepared well. We’ve compiled a list of handy hints that will help get your Shenzhen vacation started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you’ve got all the right gear. First of all you’ll need basic toiletry items, such as lip balm and hand cream, a spare pair of socks and a few magazines. Secondly, find room in your carry-on bag for your phone, tablet and chargers, any vital medications and perhaps a blow-up neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp or pointed objects, like a pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your number one priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Layer up with loose, natural-fiber clothing and pack a cardigan in case you get cold. Always opt for roomy, flat shoes as your feet may swell during the flight. Leave the high heels and chunky boots in your checked luggage.
• A condition known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation. Walking up and down the aisle and doing foot and leg exercises while seated is a great way to prevent this from occurring. Wearing a quality pair of compression tights or socks can also help.

Being prepared before your flight will make your getaway to Shenzhen quick and painless. We’ve compiled some top tips for a swift journey through security:

• First things first. Your travel ID and boarding pass will need to be inspected by airport security. Keep them handy so you don’t hold up the line.
• Your jacket, belt, keys and other items in your pocket, like your earphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go through the machine to be scanned. No need to worry though, you’ll be back online before you know it.
• Traveling with a new 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 zip-close bag, it’s fine to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you’re less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items are prohibited in the cabin. They’ll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.