The majority of people prefer to fly into Heathrow Airport (LHR) when visiting the vibrant city of Southall. However, you’ll find more than one airport in the region, so keep that in mind when organizing your travel plans.

If you’re staying in central Southall, you’ll be there within moments after landing at London Heathrow. This terminal is just 6 kilometers from downtown.

With a range of airports in one place, travelers have lots of choice when flying into Southall. If you land at Heathrow Airport (LHR), you’ll be 6 kilometers from the downtown area. There’s also London Gatwick (40 kilometers away) and LCY (29 kilometers away).

Southall is serviced by 104 airlines from at least 288 airports across the globe.

In general, travelers opt to fly with KLM, British Airways and Flybe when heading off to Southall. The majority of these flights come in from Oud-Zuid, with KLM operating this route the most frequently.

With approximately 7,208 direct flights running every week, you’ll be arriving in Southall before you have time to say, “Are we there yet?”

A large number of flights to Southall depart from Dublin, Edinburgh and New York airports.

Which city you depart from determines how long you’ll be strapped into your seat. From Schiphol to Southall, the average flight time is 1 hour and 12 minutes. From Dublin it’s more like 1 hour and 23 minutes, and from New York it’s 7 hours and 1 minute.

If you want to save some cash on your Southall vacation, listen up! As every experienced jet-setter knows, don’t leave booking until the last minute. Prices are generally more expensive close to the departure date. Another terrific way to score a bargain is to shop around. If your destination has more than one airport, be sure to research the cost of flying into a smaller terminal. And finally, don’t forget that it’s first in, best dressed. Familiarize yourself with airfare costs and be ready to book your ticket as soon as you see an unbeatable bargain. The best deals never last long.

Wherever you’re coming from, flying can be an enjoyable experience if you’re well organized. Check out these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Southall vacation started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Traveling on a plane can be a cruisy experience if you pack the right gear. Firstly, you’ll want a few basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a good read. Secondly, make room in your hand luggage for your laptop, a charger, any vital medications and maybe a neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don’t forget to bring your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like tools, metal cutlery, aerosol cans and flares. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and items that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, won’t be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of an airplane are no fashion runway. Layer up with comfy clothing and remember to bring a cardigan as the temperature can drop inside the cabin during long-haul flights. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are also a sensible choice.
• It’s likely you’ve heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by reduced mobility or inactivity. There’s lots you can do to lessen your risk. Don a pair of compression socks or tights, drink lots of water often and keep your legs and feet moving. Do a lap or two of the cabin or try out some simple stretches in your seat.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your getaway to Southall quick and painless. Here are some handy tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Keep them at hand so you don’t hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They’ll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don’t worry, you’ll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you a few precious minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed in the cabin. They’ll be seized at security, so pack them in your checked suitcase.