Cheap Flights to Melbourne

Tullamarine Airport (MEL) is the most popular airport in Melbourne. There are a few other airports in the region, so be sure you choose the most convenient for your travel plans.

It’s 19 kilometres from MEL to downtown Melbourne. Make things easier by researching the quickest way of getting from the terminal to the city centre before you touchdown.

With a range of airports in one place, travellers are spoiled for choice when it comes to flying to Melbourne. If you hit the tarmac at Tullamarine Airport, you’ll find yourself 19 kilometres from the downtown area. There’s also AVV (48 kilometres away) and Essendon Airport (MEB) (11 kilometres away).

There are a total of 30 air carriers connecting Melbourne with 60 airports from all over the globe.

Virgin Australia, Qantas and Jetstar fly the most frequently to Melbourne. The highest number of flights come in from Sydney, with Virgin Australia offering the most services on this route.

With 2 168 nonstop flights each week, you’ll be hitting the tarmac in Melbourne before you have time to say, “Are we there yet?”

Flights to Melbourne from Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide airports are the most sought after.

If it’s Sydney you’re leaving behind, you’ll be in the sky for around 1 hour and 33 minutes before you touchdown in Melbourne. Airport to airport from Brisbane generally takes 2 hours and 20 minutes and from Adelaide, it’s 1 hour and 18 minutes.

Don’t leave booking your flight to Melbourne until the last possible moment. That’s one trick savvy jet-setters use to get the best deals. Booking well in advance means more options and less expensive flights. Also, shop around and compare your options. If your destination has multiple airports, you may be able to pick up a terrific price by flying into a less busy terminal. And finally, remember that it’s first in, best dressed. Know what a typical airfare costs and have your credit card ready to grab your ticket as soon as you see an unbeatable bargain. The sweetest deals don’t last long.

We’ve rounded up all the info you need to make your flight as enjoyable as possible. Follow our tips and you’ll be cruising through the airport and seeing the best of Melbourne in no time at all.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a stress-free experience if you pack the right gear. Firstly, you’ll want some toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a magazine or two. Next, find a spot in your hand luggage for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any medications and maybe a comfy neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don’t forget to take your passport, travel papers and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like knives, scissors, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and objects that could harm other people, such as guns and swords, won’t be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your aim here is to feel as comfortable as possible. Layer up with loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a cardigan in case you get cold. Pick a pair of well-fitting, flat shoes as your feet may swell during the journey. Leave the stilettos and heavy boots in your checked baggage.
• The result of sustained periods of immobility, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. But the great news is there are numerous ways to reduce the risk of developing it. Stay well hydrated, walk around the cabin whenever possible and wear compression socks or tights.

The trick is to be well organised before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you’ll be stepping onto that plane to Melbourne in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a fantastic start:

• Your ID and travel documents will need to be presented to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don’t hold up the queue.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones will be required to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned separately.
• 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 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), zip-lock bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several minutes. Boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on sneakers usually aren’t.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in the cabin. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.