If you are flying out of San Francisco via Oakland International Airport, whether on a short domestic trip or a long-haul flight, you may be wondering what you can do – or not do, for that matter – to make your trip as stress-free as possible.
Fortunately, there is no need to ponder, as we have compiled a collection of essential do’s and don’ts for you to bear in mind as you prepare for your trip. With these helpful suggestions, it is to be hoped that your flight out of OAK will be an enjoyable and obstacle-free experience.
Read on to find out more.
Do: Stretch Your Legs Before Your Flight
If you have a long-haul flight ahead of you, it’s a good idea to get some brisk exercise before you take off, to stretch your limbs and limber up your muscles. Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline Park is situated not far from OAK and comprises 741 sprawling acres overlooking the San Leandro Bay. Here, local residents indulge their love for the great outdoors by cycling, hiking, boating, fishing, or simply finding a table and enjoying a picturesque picnic. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh sea breezesbefore you have to face the cramped quarters and recycled air of the plane.
Don’t: Forget Your Face Mask
While we have all learned to co-exist alongside Covid-19, it’s still important to follow the rules and stay as Covid-safe as possible. While different venues may have different regulations regarding their Covid policy, when flying out of OAK, it’s important that you bring a face mask, as you will be required to wear it. You should also maintain social distancing during your time at the airport.
Do: Find The Perfect Parking Solution
If you are travelling to OAK by car and are planning to leave your vehicle near the airport for the duration of your flight, you will be pleased to learn there are plenty of options when it comes to finding the ideal Oakland Airport parking. As a result, it should be a cinch to find the parking option that suits your budget and requirements, whether you are interested in VIP parking, or simply want the benefit of a convenient airport shuttle service and a secure parking space for your vehicle.
Don’t: Forget Your Duty-Free Gifts
When you have a long wait for your flight, it’s a good idea to stave off boredom with some duty-free shopping. If you are making a trip to visit loved ones, you can use the opportunity to pick up some last-minute gifts to present them with when you land. At OAK, there are several retail outlets to choose from, selling a variety of items – from sweet treats such as chocolates, nuts, and candies, to souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, and the finest perfumes and fragrances.
Do: Take In The Airport Art Displays
An airport may not seem like the obvious way to enjoy some fine art, but at OAK, they pride themselves on their Terminal 2 improvement program, overseen by the Oakland Museum of California. This program includes the display of a range of thought-provoking artworks by local artists. Among them, you will find Hung Liu’s awe-inspiring glass window wall, which features 80 red-crowned cranes – a traditional symbol of blessings and safe journeys. Entitled ‘Going Away, Coming Home’, this 160-foot artwork is an evocative symbol of air travel and was created using Liu’s trademark drip technique. You will also find other remarkable artworks located throughout Terminal 2, some of them even gracing the restrooms’ privacy walls, providing plenty of opportunities to admire the talent and skill of Oakland artists.
Don’t: Pack The Wrong Items In Your Carry-On
These days, there are a set of understandably strict rules about what you can or cannot carry onto a flight. While some of these rules may seem bewildering, it’s important that you do your homework before you pack to make sure you follow them to the letter. After all, packing any items that could be deemed to pose a threat on the flight will lead to the item’s confiscation and an uncomfortable hold-up in the airport security area. When packing your luggage – particularly your carry-on – make sure you avoid packing anything on this list of dangerous goods to prevent any problems with security.
Do: Enjoy A Drink And A Light Meal Before Take-Off
When you are embarking on a journey, it’s a good idea to keep yourself well-nourished, particularly if you have a long flight ahead of you or a potentially tiring stop-over. Fortunately, OAK is home to an array of food and drink outlets, including restaurants where you can sit down and savor a hearty meal before departure. This means you will have plenty of options to choose from, whether you fancy a light snack and a cup of coffee, something a little more filling, or just a pre-flight cocktail or two. For a quick bite, you can grab something to go from Peet’s Coffee or Bar 510. However, if you are really hungry and have some time to kill, you may want to enjoy a scenic meal at the new Oakland Draft House, which overlooks the bay.
Don’t: Overdo The Alcohol
While you may be in the mood for a couple of pre-flight beers or cocktails, or perhaps a glass of smooth red wine, it’s a good idea not to go overboard when it comes to ordering alcohol. Air travel can be tough enough on the body as it is without adding alcohol-related dehydration, tiredness, and nausea into the mix. You also don’t want to overdo it and become a nuisance to your fellow passengers and the cabin crew, so be careful when ordering your pre-departure aperitifs, particularly if you’re sipping on an empty stomach.
Have A Pleasant Flight
Catching a flight can be a stressful experience if you are not well-prepared. Hopefully, these tips and suggestions will give you all the help you need to make sure your flight out of OAK goes as smoothly and enjoyably as possible. Have a safe trip!