If you’re arriving by air, you won’t have to decide which airport to choose. Doolin has just one – Shannon Airport (SNN).

Long commutes aren’t a big deal if you plan ahead for them. Downtown Doolin is 48 kilometers from Shannon Airport, so it’s smart to know how to get to the city before you arrive.

Located 48 kilometers from the downtown area, SNN will likely be your first stop in Doolin.

You have a few options if you’re traveling to Doolin. Pick from 4 air carriers that service the city from 24 airports across the globe.

Most of the flights heading to Doolin are offered by Aer Lingus. The most well-known route is from London, and Aer Lingus flies this route the most.

With roughly 99 nonstop flights running each week, you’ll be landing in Doolin before you have time to say, “Are we there yet?”

Flights to Doolin departing from London, New York and Boston airports are always popular.

If it’s London you’re leaving behind, you’ll be in the sky for around 1 hour and 27 minutes before you touchdown in Doolin. Runway to runway from Boston typically takes 5 hours and 55 minutes and from New York, the flight time is 6 hours and 5 minutes.

Don’t leave booking your flight to Doolin until the last possible moment. That’s one move frequent travelers use to get the best deals. Booking ahead means more choices and more affordable flights. Also, do some online research and compare your options. If your destination has more than one airport, you may be able to pick up a great price by flying into a less busy terminal. And finally, don’t forget that it’s first in, best dressed. Know what a typical airfare costs and be ready to secure your seat as soon as you see a great bargain. The best deals never last long.

If you’re not prepared, traveling can be daunting. But don’t hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Doolin.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It’s simple — first, put in your passport, travel documents, cash and medications. Next, you’ll need some entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop filled with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you hope to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes so you’ll hop off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and gasoline, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The best way to ensure a comfortable flight is as simple as your choice of clothes. Prepare for temperature changes by bringing layers. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin gets too cold. Shoes like stilettos, flip flops and lace-up boots are best left in your suitcase. Even though they may be your favorites, go for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will thank you later.
• The condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It results from blood clots forming due to poor circulation. Walking around the cabin and doing regular leg and foot exercises while seated helps to prevent this happening. Wearing a pair of compression tights or socks is also a wise idea.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to security. That way, you’ll be hopping onto that plane to Doolin in next to no time. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible to avoid fumbling around for them.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the scanner’s alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They’ll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• All your electronics, including your phone and tablet, must also be scanned.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to take 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), zip-lock bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a sensible footwear choice as you’re less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won’t allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.