Cheap Flights to Hefei from CA $495

Xinqiao Intl. Airport (HFE) is the main airport in Hefei.

Xinqiao Intl. Airport (HFE) is 31 kilometres from downtown Hefei, so prepare yourself for a decent commute into the city.

Travellers from all corners of the globe pass through HFE each day. Step off the plane, gather your bags and you'll be 31 kilometres from downtown Hefei.

There are 26 airlines connecting Hefei to 61 airports globally.

China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines and Shenzhen Airlines fly the most frequently to Hefei. The highest number of flights originate in Guangzhou, with China Southern Airlines having the most services on this route.

With around 1,052 direct flights each week, you'll be arriving in Hefei before you can ask, "Are we there yet?"

Flights to Hefei departing from Guangzhou, Kunming and Chongqing airports are the most popular.

Which airport you depart from determines how long you'll be strapped into your seat. From Guangzhou to Hefei, the average flight time is 2 hours and 5 minutes. From Kunming it's roughly 2 hours and 23 minutes, and from Chongqing it's 1 hour and 41 minutes.

Don't leave locking in your flight to Hefei until the last minute. That's one trick well-versed travellers use to get the best deals. Booking ahead means more options and more affordable flights. Another good way to grab an unbeatable deal is to compare all options. If where you're headed has several airports, be sure to research the cost of flying into a less busy terminal. And finally, don't forget that the early bird catches the worm. Know what a typical airfare costs and have your credit card ready to reserve your seat as soon as you spot a bargain. The best deals don't last long.

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you've prepared well enough. We've made a list of handy tips that will get your Hefei escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, official ID, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, take on board items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a good book. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Finally, don't forget to squeeze in toiletries like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items can differ between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes tools, metal cutlery, fireworks and fuel. Sports equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm passengers, such as swords and guns, can't come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your goal here is to be as comfortable as possible. Choose slip-on footwear, dress in loose, breathable clothing and don't forget to take a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.

As seasoned travellers know, the secret is to be well organized before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be stepping onto that plane to Hefei in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be inspected by airport security personnel. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
• Next up is the X-ray machine. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• For just a few moments, you'll have to unplug from the digital world. Your laptop, phone and any other electronic devices also need to go through the scanner.
• Remember to remove liquids and gels from your carry-on bag. They often need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
• There's a chance you'll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on shoes is always a good idea.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board and will be confiscated.