If you’re arriving by air, you won’t have to ponder too long which airport to fly into. Salem has just one – Lambert-St. Louis Intl. Airport (STL).

There are 12 airlines connecting Salem with 64 airports across the world.

United Airlines and American Airlines are some of the most popular airlines that offer flights to Salem. Travelers often use Chicago as a departure point with United Airlines operating the most flights on this route.

Arranging an exciting Salem getaway is child’s play when there are 1,319 nonstop flights each week to choose from.

Travelers often depart from Denver, Dallas and Chicago airports when heading to Salem.

Where you depart from determines how long you’ll be strapped into your seat. From Chicago to Salem, the average flight time is 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Queens Village it’s roughly 2 hours and 51 minutes, and from Denver it’s 1 hour and 59 minutes.

If you’d like to have some extra spending money on your trip to Salem, listen up! As any seasoned jet-setter knows, don’t leave booking until the last minute. Fares are generally more expensive just prior to the departure date. Don’t stop there, though. Do some research and find out if there is more than one airport at your destination. Prices often differ depending on the airport you use. Don’t forget to compare fares across air carriers too. And finally, don’t forget that the early bird catches the worm. Know what a typical airfare costs and be ready to buy your ticket as soon as you see an unbeatable bargain. The best deals never last long.

If you’re poorly prepared, traveling can be tough. But there’s no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a stress-free start to your getaway in Salem.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a pleasure if you’ve got all the right stuff. Firstly, you’ll want a few basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a clean set of clothes and a good book. Secondly, find a spot in your bag for your laptop, a charger, any daily medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel papers and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, flares and matches, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of your plane are not the best place for a fashion parade. Don comfortable layers and pack a sweater as it can get chilly inside the cabin during longer flights. Enclosed, flat shoes are always a good choice too.
• Most travelers are aware of DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of sitting. There are plenty of ways to lessen your risk. Wear a quality pair of compression socks or tights, stay hydrated and get your legs and feet moving. Do a lap or two of the cabin or perform some stretches in your seat.

It’s simple — be prepared. We’ve pulled together some helpful hints for an easy trip through airport security. Look out Salem, here you come:

• Airport security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you’re allowed to proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner’s alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They’ll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronics, including your tablet and phone, must also be separately scanned.
• Want to bring along your favorite hand cream? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it’s stored in a clear zip-close bag, you can bring it with you in your carry-on baggage.
• There’s a good chance you’ll need to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a wise idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp objects in your hand luggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.