Flights to Sandakan, Sabah from NT$2,754

If you’re arriving by plane, you won’t have to think too long and hard about which airport to fly into. Sandakan has just one – Sandakan Airport (SDK).

If you’re staying in central Sandakan, you’ll be there within moments after landing at SDK. The terminal is only 10 kilometers from downtown.

Sandakan Airport is the only major airport in Sandakan. Before your flight, it’s a smart idea to research a thing or two about it. The terminal sits 10 kilometers from the center of town.

You have a number of choices if you’re jetting to Sandakan. Choose from 2 airlines that service the city from at least 4 airports around the globe.

AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines are some of the most popular airlines with flights to Sandakan. Most travelers use Kuala Lumpur as a starting point with AirAsia flying this route the most.

With 75 direct flights running each week, you’ll be arriving in Sandakan before you can say, “Are we there yet?”

A large number of flights to Sandakan depart from Kuala Lumpur, Tawau and Lahad Datu airports.

If you’re heading to Sandakan from Kuala Lumpur, you’ll have a flight time of 2 hours and 53 minutes. Those setting off from Tawau can expect to be midair for 40 minutes. From Lahad Datu it’s roughly 35 minutes away.

We all know those travelers who somehow land incredibly cheap fares every time they fly. Want to know how to do it for your Sandakan vacation? Don’t leave it until the last minute to secure your flight. Another terrific way to score the most affordable fare is to research all options. If your destination has more than one airport, be sure to look into the cost of flying into a less busy terminal. Finally, be ready to book quickly if you stumble on a great price. It might not be available for too long. With a bit of knowledge and a little luck, the ideal airfare will be yours.

Wherever you’re coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you’ve prepared well. Check out these handy hints that will help get your Sandakan vacation started on the right note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a stress-free experience if you take the right stuff. Firstly, you’ll want some toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and hairbrush, a fresh change of clothes and a good read. Secondly, make room in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, don’t forget to take your passport, travel docs and some cash.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your trusty Swiss Army knife, and dangerous products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The key to a comfortable flight often lies in your choice of clothing. Prepare for changes in temperature by layering up. This will keep you nice and warm if the cabin starts to cool down. Shoes like sandals and heels are best left in your checked suitcase. Instead, opt for flat, closed-toed footwear like sneakers. Your feet will thank you for it.
• Unfortunately, a risk of long-distance flying is developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity. To prevent this from happening, take every opportunity to wander around the cabin. Compression tights and socks are another great idea to help reduce this risk.

It’s easy — be prepared. We’ve put together some top tips for an easy trip through security. Watch out Sandakan, here you come:

• Security personnel first need to determine that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready to show.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Empty your pockets and remove anything that is likely to beep. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They’ll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it’s stored in a zip-lock bag, you’re allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• There’s a possibility that you’ll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Sharp or pointed items are not allowed on board. They’ll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.