If you’re traveling by air, you won’t have to decide which airport to choose. Prestwick has just one – Prestwick Airport (PIK).

PIK is only a short drive from buzzing downtown Prestwick. It’s located 2 kilometres from the city center.

Jump off the plane at GLA and you’ll be sitting 40 kilometres from the downtown area. PIK is another big airport in Prestwick. It sits 2 kilometres from the center of the city.

Prestwick is serviced by 14 airlines from 47 airports across the globe.

British Airways operates the majority of the flights to Prestwick. Grabbing a British Airways flight from London is the preferred way of getting there.

Arranging an amazing Prestwick vacation is easy when there are 514 nonstop flights each week to pick from.

Travelers frequently depart from London, Dublin and Belfast airports when heading to Prestwick.

Where you depart from determines how much of the in-flight entertainment you’ll get to see. From London to Prestwick, the average flight time is 1 hour and 23 minutes. From Dublin it’s more or less 1 hour and 8 minutes, and from Belfast it’s 46 minutes.

Don’t leave booking your flight to Prestwick until the last minute. That’s one trick savvy travelers use to get the best prices. Booking ahead means more options and less expensive flights. Another great way to nab the most affordable fare is to research all options. If your destination has several airports, be sure to look into the cost of flying into a smaller terminal. Last but not least, be prepared to lock in your seat quickly if you find a great price. It might not be available for too long. With a bit of knowledge and some luck, the ideal airfare can be yours.

We’ve got the lowdown on how to make your flight a stress-free experience. Follow our tips and tricks and you’ll be zooming through airport security and exploring Prestwick before you know it.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be a cruisy experience if you take the right things. Firstly, you’ll want a few basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh change of clothes and a magazine or two. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, your medications and perhaps a cozy neck pillow as well. Lastly, be sure to bring your passport, travel documents and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don’t have a pocket knife lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable substances, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your number one priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Layer yourself up in breathable clothing and don’t forget to pack a cardigan in case you get cold. Go for a pair of well-fitting, flat shoes as your feet may swell a little during the flight. Leave the stilettos and heavy boots in your checked luggage.
• Most of us have heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged periods of sitting. There are plenty of ways to reduce your risk. Wear a quality pair of compression socks or tights, drink plenty of water and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Do a few laps of the cabin or try out some exercises in your seat.

The secret is to be prepared before you arrive at airport security. That way, you’ll be boarding that plane to Prestwick before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a terrific start:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don’t hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes items like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They’ll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you’ll be back online soon enough.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hand cream, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There’s a chance you’ll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked baggage. They won’t be allowed on board.