Cheap Flights to San Francisco

San Francisco has one main airport, Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO).

A flight to San Francisco means hitting the tarmac at Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO). Hop off the plane, pick up your bags and you'll be 56 kilometres from the downtown streets.

San Francisco is serviced by 28 airlines from 47 airports around the world.

Copa Airlines and Avianca are some of the most sought-after airlines that offer flights to San Francisco. Most travellers use Panama City to take off from with Copa Airlines operating the most flights on this route.

Flying to a new place is much simpler when there aren't any stopovers. If you're travelling to San Francisco, the fantastic news is that there are approximately 761 nonstop flights each week.

Flights to San Francisco from Guatemala City, San Salvador and Orlando airports are in high demand.

If it's Guatemala City you're leaving behind, you'll be airborne for around 1 hour and 34 minutes before you arrive in San Francisco. Tarmac to tarmac from San Salvador generally takes 1 hour and 13 minutes and from Orlando, the average flight time is 3 hours and 18 minutes.

We all know those lucky jet-setters who manage to nab super cheap fares wherever they go. Want to know how to do it for your San Francisco holiday? Don't leave it until the very last minute to secure your flight. Also, look around online and compare your options. If your destination has more than one airport, you may be able to pick up an excellent deal by flying into a less busy terminal. Last of all, another simple way to save a few dollars is be ready to book fast. If you spot an irresistible bargain, don't think twice — snap it up while the opportunity's there.

Depending on where you’re coming from, your trip to San Francisco could be a piece of cake or it could go on forever. We've compiled some handy hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the essentials: passport, official ID, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring on board items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Finally, be sure to chuck in toiletry items like a toothbrush, deodorant and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by security. Sharp or pointed objects, like your precious Swiss Army knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and gasoline, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft aren't the place for a fashion parade. Layer your clothing and opt for shoes that are flat, enclosed and easy to remove.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by extended periods of inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Make a point of walking around the cabin or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

The trick is to be well prepared before you get to airport security. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to San Francisco in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips and get your holiday off to a flying start:

• Have your travel documents and ID within close reach. They're the first things you'll be asked to present to security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings like your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Can't travel without your favourite hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Lightweight sneakers are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to be required to remove them when going through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be confiscated at security, so put them in your checked suitcase.