Holiday travelers at Sacramento International Airport (SMF) can expect a festive atmosphere with live music in the terminals, special holiday menus at bars and eateries, and extra staff to keep lines moving.
SMF is currently offering 168 nonstop flights to 42 cities and travel volumes are expected to reach record-breaking heights this holiday season.
Here are some helpful tips to make your holiday travel experience fun and festive:
Travelers are strongly encouraged to arrive at the airport 2.5 hours before departure time.
From now until Jan. 11, TSA will open checkpoints in Terminal B at 3:30 a.m. and at 3:45 a.m. in Terminal A.
Concessions will open at 4 a.m.
Things to remember before heading to SMF
- Download the airline’s app and begin checking for updates at least 24 hours before departure.
- Visit SMF > Parking for current parking availability.
- Check traffic apps for updates on road conditions.
- For those concerned about what can be carried on, check TSA’s What Can I Bring? tool.
Things to remember when arriving at SMF
- Allow plenty of time to park and take the shuttle from economy lots. Wait times increase during peak travel times.
- Check-in at pre-security kiosks located in each terminal.
- Questions? Visit SMF’s friendly and knowledgeable volunteers at the information desk located in each terminal.
- Picking someone up? Please park in the free waiting lot located near the AM/PM until the passenger is ready to be picked up.
Rideshare & Public Transportation
Please consider rideshare services like Lyft, Uber, and Wingz, or Sacramento Regional Transit District's route 142, which offers express service between SMF and downtown Sacramento. YoloBus offers routes to the airport. Taxis are also available.
Parking & Transportation
The garage and daily lots fill up quickly and close regularly. Real-time parking availability information is accessible on the Airport's Parking Status Webpage. Economy lots are the best option.
Please remember, shuttle service to and from SMF’s Economy lots may take longer during peak hours.
Holiday music series returns
SMF is excited to announce a partnership with Sacramento hotspot Harlow’s to welcome diverse musical acts from the local Sacramento community. Travelers will have opportunities to see local artists perform in both terminals, post security, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 22, 23, 26, and 27. Check SMF social media pages for the most up-to-date times and locations.
Expedited Screening Options
Travelers can expedite their security screening process by enrolling in TSA Pre✓, available at SMF. The application center, located in the southeast corner of Level 1 of Terminal B, operates from 8 a.m. to noon and 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Additionally, CLEAR subscribers can enjoy expedited identification verification in the security line, with membership available on the CLEAR website.