Parking Overview
SFO Short-Term Parking is the most convenient on-airport option when you need to be close to the terminals. It includes the Domestic Parking Garage (for Domestic Terminals) and International Terminal Garages A and G (for the International Terminal). Expect a straightforward garage experience: clear signage, easy terminal access, and pay systems designed for quick in-and-out trips.
This facility is best for quick pickup/drop-off, short business trips, and travelers who value walking to the terminal over saving money. For week-long trips or strict budgets, SFO’s long-term garages (lower daily max) or off-site lots are usually a better deal.
Pricing
- Short-term rate: $2 per 15 minutes.
- Daily maximum (Domestic/International short-term): $36 per day.
- Alternative on-site deal: Some SFO garages (often referred to as Garages 1 & 2) are cited at $2 per 15 minutes with a $21 per day max (verify availability and which areas apply before entry).
- Weekly estimate: At the $36 daily max, plan about $252 for 7 days (before taxes/fees if applicable).
Comparisons: SFO long-term parking is typically capped around $27 per 24 hours, which can save significantly on multi-day trips. Off-site lots commonly run about $8–$13/day with shuttles, often the cheapest option if you can add extra time.
Discounts and payment: SFO supports online prepay reservations (often with QR code entry/exit) and also has on-site pay options such as pay-on-foot kiosks. Booking online is the best way to lock in pricing and reduce exit delays during peak periods.
Getting to Your Terminal
Short-Term Parking is designed for walkable terminal access. The Domestic Garage connects easily to Domestic Terminals, while International Garages A and G are positioned for the International Terminal. In most cases, you should plan on 5–15 minutes from parking spot to check-in, depending on your garage section and how full it is.
- Shuttles: Typically not needed for short-term; you’ll usually walk.
- ParkFAST: A premium section in the Domestic Garage intended for faster access with priority spaces near entrances.
- Weather exposure: Expect a garage environment with some walking that may include partially exposed areas depending on your route and terminal.
Features & Security
- Parking type: Garage parking (terminal garages). Coverage can vary by area.
- Security: Well-lit, high-traffic airport parking environment; follow standard precautions and keep valuables out of sight.
- EV charging: Not consistently listed for short-term areas in available sources; if EV charging is essential, confirm current availability on SFO’s parking pages before you arrive.
- Accessibility: Garages are designed for airport use with accessible spaces and elevator access near pedestrian routes to terminals.
Booking Tips
- Reserve online when possible: Prepay can speed entry/exit and may offer better rates or availability guarantees.
- Peak periods: Holidays and Monday/Thursday mornings fill fastest—arrive with extra time or consider long-term/off-site.
- Cancellation policies: Vary by booking channel; review terms before purchase, especially for prepaid QR reservations.
- If short-term is full: Use Long-Term Parking (AirTrain access, lower daily max) or an off-site shuttle lot if you’re price-sensitive.