✈️ Flight Guide: Durham (RDU) → San Francisco (SFO)

Nonstop service between Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) can be seasonal and varies by carrier; when available, nonstop flights typically take about 5 to 5.5 hours. In November expect a mix of nonstop and one-stop options with major carriers scheduling daily or several-times-weekly nonstop flights around early- and mid-week; check carrier schedules and book early for holiday weeks like Thanksgiving. Use flight alerts to capture nonstop inventory if a direct trip is a priority.

November is shoulder season for RDU to SFO routes — fares are often lower than peak summer but can spike around Thanksgiving. Early November and mid-month typically offer the best prices for cheaper flights RDU to SFO, while the week before Thanksgiving and the holiday weekend see higher demand and fares. Set fare alerts and be flexible with departure dates to maximize savings.

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) offers rental cars, off-site and on-site parking shuttles, rideshare pickup zones, and taxi services that connect to downtown Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Research Triangle Park. Regional transit and private shuttle services also operate for travelers heading to nearby cities like Charlotte or Richmond as connecting options. For the fastest transfers to Research Triangle Park or central Raleigh, rideshare or rental cars are usually most convenient.

RDU experiences its busiest passenger volumes during Thanksgiving week in November, especially the Tuesday before and the Sunday after the holiday. Expect longer security lines, fuller parking lots, and higher demand for early-morning and evening flights; arrive at least 2–3 hours before domestic departures. Consider off-peak travel days such as mid-week for fewer crowds and lower fares.

Baggage and carry-on allowances are determined by the airline, not the airport; most major carriers on the RDU–SFO route include one personal item and one carry-on in economy, with checked bag fees often applied. Verify your specific airline’s size, weight, and fee policies before packing and consider buying checked-bag bundles online to save money. Always label checked luggage and keep essential items, medications, and documents in your carry-on.

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) offers hourly, daily, and economy (long-term) parking with shuttles from economy lots to terminals; November often has promotions or off-peak deals for long-term parking but availability tightens during Thanksgiving. Reserve parking online where possible to secure a space and compare on-site rates with nearby off-airport lots that include shuttle service for cheaper options. Use the airport website or parking apps to pre-book and save time on travel day.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) to downtown San Francisco and connections to East Bay, airport shuttles, taxis, rideshare pickup zones, and multiple rental car facilities for trips to Oakland and Silicon Valley. In November, weather is generally cool and occasionally rainy, so plan extra time for surface transit and expect slightly longer transfers on busy holiday weekends. For Silicon Valley (Palo Alto, Mountain View, San Jose), Caltrain connections via Millbrae or direct shuttle services and rental cars are usually fastest.

November in the Bay Area brings cooler temperatures (mid-50s to low 60s°F) and an increased chance of light rain, especially later in the month; layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. San Francisco is famously microclimate-driven, so prepare for fog in the mornings and sunnier afternoons near the Golden Gate. Pack an umbrella and a medium-weight sweater to stay comfortable during outdoor sightseeing in November.

As of November, routine domestic travel to San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is not subject to special federal restrictions, but airline health policies and local public-health advisories can change; always check your airline and the airport website before travel. For international arrivals, normal U.S. entry requirements apply and customs procedures are handled at SFO for international flights. Stay updated on any jurisdictional guidelines and consider travel insurance for late-notice changes.

SFO sees steady passenger volumes in November, with surges around Thanksgiving and the long holiday weekend; arrivals and TSA checkpoints can be busier during peak holiday days. Midweek in early November is often less crowded and can lead to quicker baggage claim and ground-transport pickup. For smoother travel, arrive with confirmed ground transport and expect longer lines at rideshare pickup zones on peak days.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has rental car centers, private shuttle operators, and regional bus services that connect travelers to Napa Valley and Sacramento; reservation-based shuttles and car rentals are recommended in November due to increased holiday demand. For Napa Valley wine country, consider pre-booking a private transfer or rental car; for Sacramento, Amtrak Thruway buses or rental cars offer straightforward connections. Check providers early to secure preferred pickup times and vehicle types.