Summer Travel Takes Off at SFO

Summer Travel Takes Off at SFO

Airport outlines advice for travelers, what's new this season

SAN FRANCISCO - May 18, 2026 - The San Francisco International Airport (SFO) announced the start of the summer travel season with tips and advice to make travel easier and more efficient. The summer travel season will begin in earnest on Friday, May 22, 2026, with approximately 163,000 forecasted passengers traveling through SFO. In total, 16.8 million travelers are expected at SFO between Memorial Day and Labor Day, an increase of approximately 3% over summer 2025 levels.

Allow Extra Time Getting to the Airport

Travelers are strongly encouraged to arrive at the Airport at least 2 hours prior to departure for domestic flights and 3 hours prior to departure for international flights.

Non-Ticketed Visitors Can Now Get a Pass to Go Post-Security

Visitors can now get a pass to go beyond security without booking a flight. With the "SFO Gate Explorer" program, users can connect with friends and family on arrival, departure, or even a long layover, and explore all the shopping, dining, artwork, museum exhibitions and amenities that make SFO special. Visit the Gate Explorer page for more details.

Parking Garages Expected to Be Full - Book in Advance

SFO expects parking garages to be at or near capacity during the holiday travel season. SFO recommends that travelers take public transit or share rides to the Airport. For parking, the Airport recommends travelers book parking early using SFO's online booking system, which allows users to choose their parking dates and times and enter payment information to complete a booking in advance. Visit the Parking page to book.

Remote Baggage Check-in from Long-Term Parking and Rental Car Center

SFO passengers can enjoy a more seamless travel experience with remote baggage check-in, available from both the Long-Term Parking garage and the Rental Car Center. The complimentary service, offered by Bags Inc., is available for domestic flights on Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, and United Airlines. For more information, please visit the Remote Bag Check page.

About San Francisco International Airport

SFO is committed to providing an extraordinary airport experience, with seamless access, thoughtful amenities, sustainable design and inspiring artwork and exhibits.

For up-to-the-minute departure and arrival information, airport maps and details on shopping, dining, cultural exhibitions, ground transportation and more, visit the SFO website. Connect with us on X, follow us on Instagram, join us on Facebook, find us on Threads, and stay informed on Bluesky.