Connecting at SFO

Question

I will fly in with 2 kids on international flight at SFO around 10:22 pm. Next flight is a different airline UA at 5:15 am. Just realized we can’t go to the gate until we check our bag at UA counter. Any better plan we can have instead waiting out in the check in area? I originally thought we can stay in the gate for a few hours for the next flight.

Answer

Connecting at SFO late at night with two kids can be a challenge, especially when your next flight is on a different airline and you need to check bags. Since your arrival is around 10:22 pm and your UA flight departs at 5:15 am, you’ll have several hours to wait. Unfortunately, you cannot access the gate area until you’ve cleared security and checked in for your next flight.

Here are some practical strategies and options to make your overnight wait more comfortable:

Check if UA offers early check-in: Some airlines allow you to check bags and get boarding passes several hours before departure, sometimes as early as 3–4 hours ahead. If you can do this online or at a kiosk, you may be able to streamline the process upon arrival.
Stay in the airport terminal seating areas: SFO has many seating areas in the pre-security and post-security zones. Since you can’t access the gate yet, you’ll likely wait near the ticketing/check-in counters or in the airport lobby areas.
Consider airport lounges: Some lounges allow access with a paid pass or certain credit cards. Lounges often offer comfortable seating, food, Wi-Fi, and quiet space for children to rest or play. Examples at SFO include United Club (requires membership or paid access) or the Centurion Lounge (Amex card access).
Sleep pods or rest areas: SFO has designated areas for resting, including some hotels connected to the airport (like the Hyatt Regency at SFO) that offer short-stay or overnight options. Booking a nearby hotel room for a few hours might be the most comfortable choice for you and the kids.

Other helpful tips to manage the overnight wait:

Bring snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the kids, as restaurants may be limited late at night.
Keep your carry-on essentials (jackets, toiletries, blankets) easily accessible in case you need to stay in a seating area for several hours.
Locate 24-hour facilities or cafes; some terminals have vending machines or limited-service cafes that operate overnight.
Consider SFO’s airport information desk—staff can point out quieter areas, charging stations, and potential options for resting with kids.

Summary: Since you cannot go straight to the gate, the main strategies are to either wait in the check-in/lobby area, find a nearby lounge, or book a short-stay room at an airport hotel. Bringing entertainment and snacks will help keep the kids comfortable during the overnight wait. Arriving prepared will make the long layover much more manageable.

Connecting at SFO

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