Shannon Airport (SNN) is the only airport in Galway.

Make your way through the glass doors of Shannon Airport and your Galway getaway will have begun! The city’s main airport, it’s located 64 kilometres from the downtown streets.

With 4 airlines jetting into Galway from at least 24 airports around the globe, your ideal flight is just a few clicks away.

Aer Lingus operates most of the flights to Galway. Grabbing an Aer Lingus flight from London is the preferred way of getting there.

Arranging an exciting Galway adventure is a cinch when there are 99 direct flights each week to pick from.

Travelers often depart from London, New York and Boston airports when flying to Galway.

If you’re flying to Galway from London, you’re looking at a flight time of 1 hour and 27 minutes. Those departing from Boston can expect to be traveling for 5 hours and 55 minutes. From New York it’s around 6 hours and 5 minutes away.

If you want to have some extra spending money on your Galway vacation, listen up! As every experienced traveler knows, don’t leave booking until the last minute. Prices are usually highest just prior to the departure date. Don’t stop there, though. Do some research and see if there are multiple airports at your destination. Prices often differ depending on the airport you fly into. Be sure to compare prices across air carriers as well. Last but not least, be prepared to secure your seat quickly if you find a great price. It might not be available for too long. With a bit of know-how and a little luck, the ideal fare can be yours.

If you’re poorly prepared, traveling can be tough. But there’s no need to worry. Follow these handy tips and enjoy a pleasant start to your getaway in Galway.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you’ve got all the right things. Firstly, you’ll want some basic toiletries, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh change of clothes and a good read. Secondly, find a spot in your bag for your electronic devices, chargers, medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items differs between air carriers, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes box cutters, razor blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like ski poles, and items that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, can’t come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to make yourself as comfortable as you can. Layer yourself up in natural fibers and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets chilly in the cabin. Pick roomy, flat shoes as it’s possible that your feet and ankles will swell a little during the journey. Leave the stilettos and heavy hiking boots in your checked baggage.
• A condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can pose a risk on long-haul flights. It’s the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity. Walking around the cabin and doing regular foot and leg exercises while seated helps to prevent this developing. Wearing a pair of compression tights or socks also helps reduce the risk.

Being prepared before you arrive at the airport will help make your trip to Galway easy and painless. We’ve compiled some handy tips for a swift journey past security:

• Keep your boarding pass and passport at hand. They’ll be the first things you’ll be asked to present to security.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner’s alarm. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They’ll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you’ll be back online in no time.
• Want to bring along your favorite perfume or cologne? Not a problem. As long as it’s in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it’s stored in a clear zip-close bag, it’s fine to bring with you in your carry-on bag.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you’re less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They’ll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.