Brussels - National Airport (BRU) is the most frequented airport in Geel. There are several airports in the region, so be sure you pick the most convenient for your travel plans.

Long commutes aren’t a big deal if you consider your options ahead of time. Downtown Geel is 48 kilometers from BRU, so it’s wise to know how you’ll get into the city before you land.

A flight to Geel means hopping off the plane at Brussels Airport or Brussels-Charleroi Airport. The first is 48 kilometers away from downtown. The second sits 88 kilometers away.

There are a total of 56 airlines connecting Geel to 187 airports across the world.

Iberia, Brussels Airlines and Air Europa are the most frequent fliers to Geel. The majority of flights begin in Madrid, with Iberia having the most services on this route.

With roughly 1,906 nonstop flights operating each week, you’ll be landing in Geel before you can say, “Are we there yet?”

Flights to Geel from Madrid, Frankfurt and Vienna airports are the most in demand.

Which city you depart from determines how much of the in-flight entertainment you’ll get to see. From Madrid to Geel, the average flight time is 2 hours and 25 minutes. From Milan it’s more or less 1 hour and 32 minutes, and from London it’s 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Don’t leave locking in your flight to Geel until the last minute. That’s one trick seasoned jet-setters use to get the best prices. Booking ahead means more choices and cheaper flights. Also, look around online and compare your options. If your destination has a few airports, you may be able to nab a terrific price by flying into a less busy terminal. And finally, don’t forget that it’s first in, best dressed. Familiarize yourself with airfare costs and have your credit card ready to book your ticket as soon as you see a great bargain. The best deals never last long.

Wherever you’re jetting in from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. Check out these handy hints that will get your Geel vacation started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you bring the right stuff. First things first, you’ll need basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a spare set of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, make room in your carry-on bag for your phone and charger, medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to take your passport, travel papers and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, drills, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and objects that could harm passengers, such as guns and swords, are also banned from the cabin.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to be as comfortable as possible. Layer up with loose, breathable clothing and take a pullover in case it gets cold in the cabin. Opt for a pair of flat, slightly roomy shoes as your feet may swell a little during the flight. Leave the stilettos and heavy boots in your checked luggage.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long flights is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity. To prevent this from happening, take every opportunity to walk around and give your legs a stretch. Compression tights and socks are another simple way to help lower your risk.

A little pre-planning before your flight will help make your trip to Geel a pleasure. Read through our handy tips and tricks for a stress-free journey through security:

• Be sure to have your ID and boarding pass close by. They’re the first items you’ll be asked to show at airport security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, take off anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you’ll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, tablet and any other electronics also need to be sent through the scanner.
• Any gels or liquids, such as hair oil or hand cream, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you a few precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on sneakers usually aren’t.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They’ll be confiscated at security, so pack them in your checked baggage.