Why Does Expedia Redirect Me to San Jose When Booking a Trip from Singapore to San Francisco?

When booking a trip to San Francisco from Singapore, it's not uncommon for travelers to encounter some confusion when the Expedia app redirects them to San Jose, California, instead of the more recognized San Francisco Airport (SFO). Surprisingly, San Jose International Airport (SJC) might be the cheaper and more convenient option for some travelers. Here are the reasons behind this redirection, along with factors to consider when planning your trip.

Why San Jose?

There could be several reasons why an app like Expedia might direct you to San Jose. One possible explanation is that the airline or San Jose airport might be receiving higher payouts from Expedia, leading to a commission system that incentivizes choosing San Jose over San Francisco. Another reason could be the overall lower costs of operating out of San Jose, such as cheaper taxes and cheaper accommodations in the area.

San Jose is often described as a large suburbia, making it easier to navigate around. The airport is not as large as SFO, so moving in and out can be simpler. While there are fewer five-star hotels, finding accommodation in the area tends to be cheaper. Additionally, you might find car rental taxes are much cheaper in San Jose. Dining options are plenty, with a variety of great food available, although it is a longer drive to get to San Francisco.

Travel Considerations: Commuters and Business Travelers

For commuters and short business trips of a couple of days, going through San Jose could indeed be a viable option, owing to the reduced travel time and the ease of parking. However, for longer trips, such as two weeks, the convenience of direct access to San Francisco is more appealing, despite the slightly longer travel time. If you're planning a 2-week stay, the difference in convenience might not be significant enough to outweigh the benefits of connecting directly to San Francisco.

Expedia and Other Booking Platforms

It's worth noting that Expedia, like other travel booking platforms, sometimes routes users to airports that might offer cheaper rates or better commissions. However, using Google Flights for your flight searches can be a more reliable method. Google Flights has been widely recognized for its ease of use and transparency in flight pricing. Once you find flights that suit your needs, you can be directed directly to the airline’s website to complete your reservation with all the necessary information pre-filled.

Concluding Thoughts

San Francisco and San Jose each offer their own distinct advantages when it comes to travel, and the decision often comes down to personal preference and specific travel needs. If you're considering visiting San Francisco, you might be in for a beautiful and memorable trip filled with culture, attractions, and world-class cuisine. Whether you choose San Jose or San Francisco, make sure to plan thoroughly and choose the option that best fits your travel goals.