Submit feedbackSubmit feedbackComplete travel information for your November journey
November departures from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) offer a balance between autumn travel demand and lower winter fares. With nearby major access cities including San Jose, Oakland, Palo Alto, Napa and Sacramento, travelers can choose convenient ground connections to SFO. Expect cooler, sometimes rainy San Francisco weather in November; plan transport time accordingly, especially if you’re driving from the Peninsula or Silicon Valley. Book SFO to PEK flights in early fall for the best availability and use flexible date searches to find lower midweek fares.
In November, travelers flying from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) can choose between seasonal nonstop services offered by major carriers and one-stop itineraries via hubs such as Tokyo (NRT), Seoul (ICN), Taipei (TPE) or Hong Kong (HKG). Nonstop flights generally operate year-round but may have reduced frequency in off-peak weeks; connecting flights often provide more schedule flexibility and potentially lower fares. Compare schedules and book early for the best nonstop SFO to PEK flight availability in November.
A nonstop flight from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) typically takes about 11 to 12.5 hours depending on winds and routing. One-stop itineraries can take 14 to 20+ hours including layovers, with common connections in East Asian hubs. Always check the published flight time when booking to plan arrival times and ground transportation in Beijing.
U.S. citizens need a valid passport and the appropriate Chinese visa or eligible visa-free entry policy documents where applicable. Health entry requirements can change, so check both U.S. and Chinese government websites for the latest vaccine or testing guidance before traveling in November. Allow extra time at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) for document checks and arrive at least 3 hours before international departures.
November sees fewer weather-related disruptions at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) than winter months, but occasional Pacific storms can cause delays or cancellations. On the Beijing side, early-winter conditions and air quality issues can occasionally affect operations, though major disruptions are uncommon. Monitor airline notifications and flight status the day before and the day of departure, and consider travel insurance for November long-haul itineraries.
Pack layered clothing for Beijing's cool to cold November weather, including a warm coat, sweaters, and a compact umbrella; San Francisco temperatures are milder but can be rainy in November. Bring power adapters (China uses Type A, C, and I variants in some areas), a copy of travel documents, and an air-purifying mask if you are sensitive to seasonal air quality in Beijing. For long-haul comfort on flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), include a travel pillow, noise-cancelling headphones, and toiletries in your carry-on.
Arrive at least three hours before your international departure from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to allow time for check-in, TSA security, and any additional document screening. During November holiday travel (e.g., Thanksgiving week), consider adding extra buffer time for longer security lines and increased airport traffic. Use online check-in and mobile boarding passes to speed up your pre-flight process.
Arriving at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) in November gives you access to early-winter Beijing with cool weather, thinner crowds at major sites, and good public transport into the city. Nearby major destinations accessible from PEK include Tianjin, the Great Wall (Mutianyu, Badaling), Xi'an via high-speed rail or domestic flights, and weekend escapes to Chengde or northern Hebei. Expect efficient Airport Express train service, plentiful taxis, and ride-hailing options; however, allow extra time for immigration and baggage claim after long-haul flights from San Francisco.
November in Beijing (arrivals at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)) is typically cool to cold with daytime temperatures often between 5°C and 12°C (41°F–54°F) and chilly nights. Expect dry, crisp air and the start of winter heating; air quality can vary, with some days of elevated PM2.5—pack layers and a warm coat. Check local forecasts the week of travel and bring masks or a portable air filter if sensitive to pollution.
From Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), travelers can take the Airport Express train, taxis, app-based ride services, or pre-booked private transfer to downtown Beijing; travel time ranges from 30 to 60+ minutes depending on traffic and your final destination. In November, traffic is usually moderate but can increase during major shopping days like Singles' Day (November 11) and during holiday weekends. Plan extra time for luggage and passage through immigration and customs when arriving from San Francisco.
Upon arrival at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) from San Francisco, expect passport control, visa or travel document checks, baggage claim, and customs inspection. Immigration queues can be long during peak arrival windows, so have your passport, visa, and customs form ready; e-gates may be available for eligible travelers. In November, additional health screening procedures may be minimal but remain informed about temporary entry measures.
Yes—Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) provides easy access to Beijing attractions like the Forbidden City, Great Wall sections (Mutianyu, Badaling), and nearby major cities and destinations such as Tianjin, Shanghai, Xi'an, Chengde, and even day trips to the Ming Tombs. November is ideal for sightseeing with autumn foliage at some Great Wall sections and fewer tourists compared to peak months. Plan extra warm layers for early-morning or late-evening excursions.
Air quality in Beijing can decline in late autumn as heating seasons begin and weather patterns change; PM2.5 levels are sometimes elevated in November. Travelers arriving at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) should check real-time AQI apps, bring masks if sensitive, and consider accommodations with air purifiers. Stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities on high-pollution days, and consult local health advisories for the latest guidance.
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) is a major hub with strong domestic and international connections year-round, and November typically offers robust schedules to cities like Shanghai, Xi'an, Chengdu, Tianjin and international hubs. If you have a tight connection after arriving from San Francisco, book longer layovers during November to account for potential arrival delays and immigration lines. Use airline alliances to protect connections when booking multi-leg itineraries.
While November is quieter than peak tourist months, Beijing offers seasonal experiences for arrivals at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) including autumn foliage at the Great Wall (Mutianyu, Badaling), cultural exhibitions at the National Museum, and large-scale shopping promotions around Singles' Day (November 11) with city-wide retail events. Late November often sees early holiday markets, art exhibitions, and indoor performances as the weather cools. Travelers from San Francisco can time visits to enjoy fewer crowds and local seasonal cuisine like hotpot and roasted chestnuts.
The best time to fly SFO to PEK in November is during the first three weeks (mid-November often offers lower fares), avoiding the Thanksgiving holiday window when return fares spike. Midweek departures (Tuesday–Thursday) often deliver the best value and fewer crowds at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). For sightseeing in Beijing, early November provides crisp autumn weather and clear skies, while late November gets colder—plan your trip dates based on preferred climate and price sensitivity.
Direct nonstop flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) save time — typically 11–12.5 hours in the air — and reduce the risk of missed connections. Connecting flights often cost less and can increase schedule options, with common connections via Tokyo, Seoul, Taipei, or Hong Kong; however, they add total travel time and potential for longer layovers. In November, weigh cost savings against the extra time and consider baggage transfer protection and minimum connection times if choosing connecting itineraries.
Major carriers offering service on the SFO–PEK corridor include United Airlines and Air China for nonstops when schedules permit, while China Eastern, China Southern, Korean Air, ANA, Japan Airlines and Cathay Pacific frequently provide one-stop options via regional hubs. Consider seat comfort, in-flight entertainment, baggage allowance, COVID-era policies, and alliance benefits when comparing in November. For business travelers, look for lie-flat seats and premium lounge access on select carriers; economy travelers should compare change fees and bundled extras.
Travelers flying from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) in November should pack warm layers, a compact umbrella, chargers and power adapters, and an extra face mask for air-quality variability. Manage jet lag from the 16-hour time difference by adjusting sleep a few days before travel and using daylight exposure upon arrival. For November bookings, avoid Thanksgiving week for better prices and be prepared for varying domestic transport connections within China; always check visa requirements, travel insurance, and airline baggage rules before departure.
Nonstop flight duration from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) is generally about 11 to 12.5 hours, subject to winds and routing. Overnight red-eye departures from SFO arrive in Beijing the following afternoon or evening local time due to a 16-hour time difference in November (Beijing UTC+8; San Francisco typically UTC-8 PST). Connecting itineraries via Tokyo (NRT/HND), Seoul (ICN), Taipei (TPE), or Hong Kong (HKG) usually add 2–8 hours in layovers, making total travel time 14–20+ hours. In November, airlines may adjust frequencies around U.S. Thanksgiving, so check schedules closely and consider longer connection buffers.
To find cheap SFO to PEK flights in November, search for midweek departures (Tuesday–Thursday), monitor fare alerts, and compare one-stop itineraries via Tokyo (NRT/HND), Seoul (ICN), Taipei (TPE) or Hong Kong (HKG). Typical round-trip economy fares in November often range from about $700 to $1,200 depending on promotions, airline, and how close to Thanksgiving you book. Use flexible dates, set price alerts 6–8 weeks before travel, and consider booking connecting flights on different carriers if it lowers the cost. Business-class discounts may appear in shoulder-season November—check legacy carriers and alliance partners.