San Juan is served by more than one airport, but most people use Luis Munoz Marin Intl. Airport (SJU).

If you’re staying in central San Juan, it’s a smart idea to organize how you’ll get into the city before you land. The downtown area is approximately 11 kilometres from Luis Munoz Marin Intl. Airport (SJU).

If you’re jumping on a plane to San Juan, you’ll most likely hit the tarmac at Isla Verde Intl. Airport (11 kilometres from downtown). SIG (2 kilometres from downtown) is the other main airport here.

There are a total of 19 air carriers connecting San Juan with 39 airports across the globe.

Most often, travelers opt to fly with Spirit Airlines, JetBlue Airways and Frontier Airlines when heading to San Juan. The biggest proportion of these flights originate in Orlando, with Spirit Airlines operating this route the most.

With roughly 862 direct flights running every week, you’ll be touching down in San Juan before you can say, “Are we there yet?”

A large number of flights to San Juan set off from Orlando, New York and Fort Lauderdale airports.

If it’s Orlando you’re leaving behind, you’ll be in the sky for around 2 hours and 53 minutes before you touchdown in San Juan. Terminal to terminal from British Virgin Islands generally takes 43 minutes and from New York, the flight time is 3 hours and 48 minutes.

If you want to have some extra spending money on your San Juan vacation, listen up! As any seasoned jet-setter knows, avoid booking at the last minute. Fares are usually more expensive just prior to the departure date. Another good way to get the most affordable fare is to shop around. If your destination has a few airports, don’t forget to research the cost of flying into a less busy terminal. And finally, don’t forget that it’s first in, best dressed. Know what a typical airfare costs and have your credit card ready to buy your ticket as soon as you spot a bargain. The sweetest deals don’t last long.

Depending on where you’re coming from, your trip to San Juan could be completely stress-free or it could go on forever. We’ve compiled some handy tips that will help you start your next big adventure on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a great experience if you pack the right gear. Firstly, you’ll want some basic toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a clean pair of socks and a good novel. Next, make room in your hand luggage for your electronic devices, chargers, any medications and perhaps a proper neck pillow too. Lastly, don’t forget to take your passport, travel docs and some money.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Make sure you don’t have sharp or pointed objects lurking in your hand luggage. Other restricted items include flammable or explosive goods, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your highest priority when deciding what to wear on board. Consider your footwear choice carefully too, as swelling of the feet and ankles are a common side effect of flying. Shoes which are flat and slightly roomy are always a good idea.
• Most travelers are aware of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. There’s plenty you can do to lessen your risk. Wear compression socks, drink lots of water often and move your legs and feet. Do a few laps of the cabin or try out some exercises in your seat.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you’ll be boarding that plane to San Juan before you know it. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don’t hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to beep. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They’ll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. Don’t worry though, you’ll be back online before you know it.
• Want to bring along your favorite cologne or perfume? 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, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you’re less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items can’t be taken on board. They’ll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked baggage.