Capital Intl. Airport (PEK) is the most sought-after airport in Beijing. There are multiple airports in the region, so make sure you go for the correct one when booking.

The journey between Beijing Capital International Airport and downtown Beijing is reasonably long. You’ll need to travel 26 kilometers before you can check in to your city hotel.

If you’re jumping on a plane to Beijing, you’ll likely land at Beijing Capital Airport (26 kilometers from downtown). PKX (40 kilometers from downtown) is the other major airport here.

There are a total of 38 air carriers connecting Beijing to 150 airports from all over the globe.

Beijing receives the largest number of flights from China Eastern Airlines, Air China and Hainan Airlines with China Eastern Airlines being the preferred choice of airline. Shanghai is the most popular city for travelers to take off from.

Arranging an exciting Beijing vacation is a walk in the park when there are 6,301 nonstop flights each week to choose from.

The most popular flights to Beijing depart from Shanghai, Shenzhen and Guangzhou airports.

If it’s Shanghai you’re leaving behind, you’ll be in the sky for around 2 hours and 23 minutes before you touchdown in Beijing. Terminal to terminal from Shenzhen takes around 3 hours and 11 minutes and from Guangzhou, the average flight time is 2 hours and 35 minutes.

Don’t leave booking your flight to Beijing until the last minute. That’s one move frequent jet-setters use to get the best deals. Booking in advance means more options and less expensive flights. Also, shop around and compare your options. If your destination has a few airports, you may be able to score a fantastic price by flying into a smaller terminal. Lastly, another simple way to save a few dollars is be ready to book fast. If you see a terrific bargain, don’t think twice — grab it while the opportunity’s there.

Wherever you’re jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you’ve planned ahead. We’ve compiled a list of top travel tips that will help get your Beijing escape started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a pleasure if you’ve got all the right gear. Firstly, you’ll want some toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare pair of socks and a few magazines. Next, make room in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, aerosol cans and flares. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, won’t be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort really should be your priority when picking what to wear during your flight. Consider your choice of footwear carefully too, as swollen feet and ankles are quite common. Shoes which are flat and slightly roomy are always a sensible way to go.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. The good news is there are numerous ways to significantly reduce the risk of developing it. Stay well hydrated, get up and wander the aisles whenever possible and wear compression socks or tights.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will make your trip to Beijing easy and painless. Below you’ll find some top tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Be sure to have your travel documents and passport within easy reach. They’re the first things you’ll be asked for by airport security.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other small items, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you’ll have to unplug from technology. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices will also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren’t.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed in the cabin. They’ll be seized at security, so put them in your checked bags.