Cheap Flights to Shanghai

Most visitors prefer to fly into Pudong Intl. Airport (PVG) when visiting the bustling city of Shanghai.

Shanghai Pudong Airport is 32 kilometres from downtown Shanghai, so prepare yourself for a bit of a commute into the city.

Before booking tickets to Shanghai, it's a wise idea to think about which airport is the most convenient. Shanghai Pudong International Airport is 32 kilometres from downtown. If you touchdown at Shanghai Hongqiao Intl. Airport, you'll be 13 kilometres away from the heart of the city.

There are 86 airlines that fly into Shanghai from 217 airports across the globe.

Shanghai receives the most flights from China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines and Spring Airlines with China Eastern Airlines being the preferred choice of airline. Guangzhou is the most popular city for travellers to jet off from.

Organising an unforgettable Shanghai escape is simple when there are 7,824 direct flights every week to select from.

Travellers frequently set off from Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Beijing airports when going to Shanghai.

If you're flying to Shanghai from Guangzhou, you'll have a flight time of 2 hours and 13 minutes. Those setting off from Shenzhen can expect to be airborne for 2 hours and 15 minutes. From Beijing it's approximately 2 hours and 13 minutes away.

If you want to have some extra spending money on your trip to Shanghai, then listen up! As any experienced traveller will tell you, avoid booking at the last minute. Airfares are usually more expensive just prior to the departure date. Also, shop around and compare your options. If your destination has a few airports, you may be able to nab a terrific deal by flying into one that's further away. Last but not least, another easy way to save some money is be ready to book fast. If you find a fantastic bargain, don't think twice — snap it up while you've got the chance.

Depending on where you’re coming from, your flight to Shanghai could be no sweat at all or it could drag on forever. We've pulled together some handy travel tips that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a pain-free travel experience is to pack ahead. First up, the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you occupied, like some electronic gadgets or a juicy novel. It's also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, be sure to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, facial wipes and a spare change of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Double-check that you don't have sharp objects (like a pocket knife) hiding in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include flammable or explosive products, such as fuel and fireworks, and gels and liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Opt for shoes that are easy to pull on and off, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to take a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• The result of lengthy periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clotting condition that can affect some passengers during long-haul flights. Reduce the risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression tights or socks.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Shanghai in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a great start:

• Be sure to have your ID and travel documents within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to show at security.
• Your coat, belt, keys and other small items, like coins, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them before your turn arrives.
• Your electronic gadgets like laptops and phones will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. Don't worry, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Can't travel without your favourite cologne or perfume? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-lock bag, it's OK to bring with you on board.
• Slip-on shoes are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to extra screening.
• Sharp items like knives are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.