✈️ Flight Guide: San Francisco (SFO) → Vancouver (Any)

Question 1

A typical nonstop flight from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Vancouver (All Airports) (YVRA) takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes to 2 hours and 40 minutes in September depending on wind and routing. Both cities operate on Pacific Time (PDT) in September, so you usually don’t cross time zones. For the fastest options, look for direct flights operated by Alaska Airlines or Air Canada and book early to secure preferred departure times.

Question 2

To find cheap flights SFO to YVRA in September, start searching 4–8 weeks before travel and compare fare aggregators with airline sites. Consider midweek departures (Tuesday–Thursday) and early-morning flights for lower fares, and sign up for fare alerts from Alaska Airlines, Air Canada and fare-tracking tools. Flexibility on dates and using nearby airports like Oakland or San Jose can also reduce prices.

Question 3

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) uses multiple terminals (1, 2, 3 and International Terminal) with lounge access, TSA PreCheck lanes and expanded RFID bag-checking; most carriers to Vancouver operate from Terminal 1 or the International Terminal depending on the airline. In September the campus is less crowded than summer peak months, but arrive 90 minutes before a domestic flight or 2 hours for any international-processed departures. Check your airline’s terminal and online check-in to streamline your departure from SFO.

Question 4

September is typically mild with clear Pacific weather in San Francisco, though coastal fog can occasionally affect morning flights; delays are less common than in winter. Vancouver starts transitioning to cooler, wetter weather late in September, so slight flight delays due to low clouds or rain are possible. Always check your airline’s status and the FAA/National Weather Service for last-minute advisories.

Question 5

For early departures from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), take BART to downtown San Francisco for reliable, traffic-free travel, or use rideshares and airport shuttles if you have heavy luggage. Allow extra time for shuttle pickups during weekend events and check Clipper card or contactless options for convenience. Parking at SFO has daily and hourly rates—book airport parking in advance to save money.

Question 6

As of September, travelers from the U.S. to Canada generally need a valid passport and any applicable visas or eTA; COVID-related entry requirements are subject to change, so check official government sites before travel. For U.S. departures from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), keep photo ID and boarding pass ready for TSA and review the airline’s rules about carry-on and checked baggage allowances. Visit the U.S. and Canadian government travel advisory pages for the latest entry requirements.

Question 7

From Vancouver (All Airports) (YVRA), the Canada Line rapid transit is the fastest public option to downtown Vancouver, taking about 25–30 minutes from Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Taxis and rideshares are also readily available, and September is often less rainy than later fall months, making surface travel reliable. If you're arriving at secondary airports (All Airports designation covers nearby airfields), check local shuttle options to downtown and neighboring cities like Richmond or North Vancouver.

Question 8

Pack layers, a lightweight waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes for Vancouver in September since mornings can be crisp and evenings cooler with occasional showers. Bring a compact umbrella and a daypack for exploring Stanley Park, Granville Island and nearby hiking trails. Also carry a valid passport and any documentation required for Canadian entry.

Question 9

U.S. citizens typically need a valid passport to enter Canada and may need an eTA if flying from outside the U.S.; however, U.S. citizens do not require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) when entering by air. Non-U.S. travelers should verify visa and eTA requirements well before September travel on official Canadian government sites. Always present any required travel documents at arrival to avoid delays.

Question 10

In September, Vancouver hosts early fall events like the Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF) and outdoor harvest activities on nearby Vancouver Island and the Fraser Valley. It's an ideal month for whale watching, hiking in Lynn Canyon or visiting Whistler for late-summer trails and fewer crowds. Check local event calendars for exact dates and ticket availability to plan your arrival around top festivals.

Question 11

September is shoulder season, so Vancouver (All Airports) (YVRA) is generally less crowded than summer peak months but still busy on holiday weekends and during festivals. Use automated passport control or eGates where available, have your passport ready, and fill out any customs declarations electronically to speed processing. For baggage, check airline updates and use priority baggage options if you need faster retrieval.

1.0.2607.07

Best Flights starting from $180

Mon, Sep 14

Roundtrip

Wed, Sep 30

Fri, Sep 11

Roundtrip

Sun, Sep 27

Wed, Sep 9

Roundtrip

Fri, Sep 25

Tue, Sep 1

Roundtrip

Fri, Sep 4

Sat, Sep 12

Roundtrip

Mon, Sep 28

Tue, Sep 8

Roundtrip

Thu, Sep 24

Thu, Sep 10

Roundtrip

Sat, Sep 26

Sun, Sep 13

Roundtrip

Tue, Sep 29

Wed, Sep 2

Roundtrip

Sat, Sep 5

Other Options for This Route

Other Destinations

Flights from Other Cities

Departing from San Francisco (SFO) FAQs

How long is a non-stop flight from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Vancouver (All Airports) (YVRA) in September?

What is the best way to find cheap flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Vancouver (All Airports) (YVRA) for travel in September?

What airport terminals and services should I expect at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) before flying to Vancouver in September?

Are there seasonal weather considerations for departing San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Vancouver (All Airports) (YVRA) in September?

What ground transportation is recommended from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to downtown San Francisco for an early September departure?

Are there travel document or COVID-related requirements to depart from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Vancouver (All Airports) (YVRA) in September?

Nearby Cities & Destinations

Arriving at Vancouver (Any) FAQs

What is the best way to get from Vancouver (All Airports) (YVRA) to downtown Vancouver in September?

What should I pack for arriving in Vancouver (All Airports) (YVRA) in September?

Are there visa or eTA requirements for arriving at Vancouver (All Airports) (YVRA) from San Francisco in September?

What are popular September events and activities near Vancouver (All Airports) (YVRA)?

How busy is Vancouver (All Airports) (YVRA) in September and are there tips to speed up arrival?

Flight Options & Prices:

Cheap economy Flights: SFO to YVRA in September - Route 3

Flight Options & Prices:

Cheap economy Flights: SFO to YVRA in September - Route 4

Flight Options & Prices:

Cheap economy Flights: SFO to YVRA in September - Route 5

Flight Options & Prices:

Cheap economy Flights: SFO to YVRA in September - Route 6

Flight Options & Prices:

Cheap economy Flights: SFO to YVRA in September - Route 7

Flight Options & Prices:

Cheap economy Flights: SFO to YVRA in September - Route 8

Flight Options & Prices:

Cheap economy Flights: SFO to YVRA in September - Route 9

Flight Options & Prices:

Why Choose Economy Class Flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Vancouver (Any)?