Cheap Flights to Lanzhou from CA $518

Book a flight to Lanzhou and you'll be hitting the tarmac at Zhongchuan Airport (LHW).

If you plan on staying in central Lanzhou, it's a good idea to arrange how you'll get into the city before you arrive. The downtown area is about 21 kilometres from LHW.

LHW is the main airport in Lanzhou. Before you head there, it's a smart idea to know a little about it. The terminal sits about 21 kilometres from the downtown area.

Lanzhou is serviced by 29 airlines from 70 worldwide airports.

China Southern Airlines, Hainan Airlines and Shandong Airlines are the most frequent fliers to Lanzhou. The highest number of flights come in from Ürümqi, with China Southern Airlines having the most services on this route.

With roughly 1,143 nonstop flights running each week, you'll be arriving in Lanzhou before you can ask, "Are we there yet?"

Travellers frequently set off from Ürümqi, Shanghai and Beijing airports when heading to Lanzhou.

Where you depart from determines how much of the in-flight entertainment you'll get to enjoy. From Ürümqi to Lanzhou, the average flight time is 2 hours and 43 minutes. From Shanghai it takes about 3 hours and 23 minutes, and from Beijing it's 2 hours and 28 minutes.

We all know those travellers who somehow get incredibly cheap plane tickets whenever they fly. Want to know how to do it for your Lanzhou vacation? Don't wait until the last minute to lock in your flight. Also, look around online and compare your options. If your destination has multiple airports, you may be able to score an excellent price by flying into one a little farther out. Lastly, another easy way to save some cash is be ready to book fast. If you find an amazing bargain, don't think twice — grab it while the opportunity's there.

We've pulled together all the info you need to make your journey as enjoyable as possible. Follow our tips and you'll be zooming through the airport and having a blast in Lanzhou in next to no time. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane trip can be easy if you've got all the right things. Firstly, you'll want a few toiletry items, such as toothpaste, a toothbrush and some deodorant, a fresh set of clothes and a few magazines. Secondly, find a spot in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow too. Lastly, and most importantly, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like ice skates, and objects that could injure passengers, such as pepper spray and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main priority is to be as comfortable as you can. Choose easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to bring a sweater in case it gets chilly in the cabin.
• Caused by lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs moving and wearing compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The trick is to be well prepared before you get to security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Lanzhou before you know it. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a flying start:

• Security personnel first need to establish that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them close by.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Empty your pockets and remove anything metal that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry, you'll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to bring on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers are usually not.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.