If you’re traveling by air, you won’t have to worry which airport to fly into. Houghton Lake has just one – Gerald R. Ford Intl. Airport (GRR).

There are 6 air carriers that service Houghton Lake from 28 airports across the globe.

United Airlines and American Airlines fly frequently into Houghton Lake. Catching a United Airlines flight from Chicago is one of the most preferred ways to get there.

With approximately 381 nonstop flights operating every week, you’ll be arriving in Houghton Lake before you can say, “Are we there yet?”

Travelers often jet off from Chicago, Detroit and Minneapolis - St. Paul airports when going to Houghton Lake.

If you’re going to Houghton Lake from Chicago, you’re looking at a flight duration of 1 hour and 3 minutes. Those setting off from Detroit should expect to be airborne for around 59 minutes. From Atlanta it’s about 1 hour and 51 minutes away.

If you’d like to save some cash on your trip to Houghton Lake, then listen up! As every seasoned jet-setter knows, don’t book at the very last minute. Airfares are usually more expensive close to the departure date. Also, look around online and compare your options. If your destination has more than one airport, you may be able to pick up a better deal by flying into one a little farther out. Last of all, another easy way to save some money is be ready to book at a moment’s notice. If you stumble on a good bargain, don’t think twice — snap it up while you’ve got the chance.

Depending on where you’re coming from, your flight to Houghton Lake could be completely painless or it could go on forever. We’ve rounded up some handy hints that will help you start your next great escape on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a stress-free experience if you bring the right stuff. Firstly, you’ll need basic toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and something to read. Secondly, leave space in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any medications and maybe a quality neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don’t have a sharp object hiding in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive substances, such as fuel and matches, and liquids and gels in containers with a volume of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your number one priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Layer yourself up in natural-fiber clothing and pack a pullover just in case you get chilly. Pick a pair of flat, slightly roomy shoes as your feet may swell during the flight. Leave the high heels and chunky boots in your luggage.
• Unfortunately, a risk of flying long distances is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by lengthy periods of inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to stretch your legs and walk around the cabin. Compression tights and socks are also a great idea to help reduce this risk.

Being prepared before you get to the airport can make your getaway to Houghton Lake easy and painless. Read through our handy hints for a swift journey through security:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and travel documents before anything else. Have them within easy reach, ready for inspection.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They’ll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• For just a few moments, you’ll need to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as perfume or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• There’s a chance you’ll be required to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a clever idea.
• Airlines won’t allow any sharp or pointed objects in your hand luggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them safely in your checked baggage.