Flying from Samui International Airport (USM) to San Francisco International Airport (SFO): what you need to know
The timezone in San Francisco is UTC-8, which is 15 hours behind Koh Samui.
For a smooth journey, turn up at the airport two hours ahead of international flights and one hour before domestic departures. This way, you'll have plenty of time to board your USM to SFO flight.
Be prepared for longer queues during popular months such as December. Arriving up to four hours ahead of an international flight and two hours for a domestic departure will give you ample time for security and boarding.
Handy information about Samui International Airport (USM)
Samui International Airport has an excellent on-time record, reducing the likelihood of delays. Departures from USM arrive on schedule 83% of the time.
Central Koh Samui to Samui International Airport is approximately 11 kilometres. Depending on traffic, it'll take about 20 minutes to get there if you're ride-sharing, catching a taxi or driving.
Expect a trip time of about 30 minutes when using public transport.
Taking an early flight from Samui International Airport to San Francisco International Airport? Avoid the hassle of rushing to the airport (and get some extra shut-eye) by choosing one of these stays near USM:
Arriving at San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
If you're arriving on a late Samui International Airport to San Francisco International Airport flight, few things top the convenience of being near the terminal. Grab your luggage from the carousel and then be tucked up in bed soon after at one of these accommodation options near SFO:
Go where the road takes you with a San Francisco International Airport rental car. Pick up a set of wheels from Dollar, Thrifty or Hertz and discover more of San Francisco and beyond.
For the best deal, book your ride from San Francisco International Airport about one week in advance.
When to fly to San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
It's time to work out your dates for your flight from Samui International Airport to San Francisco International Airport. July is the most popular month to head to San Francisco. If you like a more laid-back vibe, go in March.
The warmest month in San Francisco is September, with the temperature ranging between 12ºC (54ºF) and 24ºC (75ºF). Book your flights from Samui International Airport to San Francisco International Airport in this month if this is the kind of weather you like.
If you like cooler conditions, look for a cheap ticket from USM to SFO in January. Average temperatures are between 5ºC (41ºF) and 16ºC (61ºF) then.
Explore more of the United States
You've visited San Francisco, now it's time to explore other corners of the United States. Travel around 64 kilometres south-east to San Jose to check off its top attractions. From Winchester Mystery House to The Tech Interactive and Santa Clara Valley, you'll have a packed itinerary ahead.
If you want to check out another well-known destination in the United States, head for Fresno, roughly 257 kilometres south-east of San Francisco. Forestiere Underground Gardens, Shinzen Japanese Garden and Fresno Chaffee Zoo are highlights.