$183 Cheap Flights to San Mateo

Flights to San Mateo at a glance

Traveling to San Mateo is easy; you can choose between full-service and budget airlines. Compare travel times and select the option that best aligns with your budget, itinerary, and plans to visit the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

• Major airports near San Mateo: Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR), Playa de Oro International Airport (ZLO)
• Closest airport to San Mateo: Playa de Oro International Airport, ZLO (around 45 miles)
• Flights per week: 2,300+ flights arriving across San Mateo airports
• Number of airlines that fly to San Mateo: around 20+ carriers

Popular airports near San Mateo

San Mateo is a vibrant city ideal for business trips, urban explorations, and beach getaways. Visitors are drawn by its stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and picturesque scenery. The city is conveniently accessible via two major airports, enhancing travel options for all.

• Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR): Situated in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, approximately 77 miles from San Mateo, this airport operates a mix of domestic and international flights, linking travelers to over 30 domestic cities and more than 195 international destinations. Passengers can choose to enhance their travel experience by upgrading to business class, premium economy, or first class seating based on the airline and route. Key airlines operating here include American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and United.
• Playa de Oro International Airport (ZLO): Located in Colima, roughly 45 miles from San Mateo, this airport facilitates both domestic and international flights, serving around 4 domestic cities and over 30 international locations. Travelers have the option to elevate their experience with premium economy, business class, or first class seating, depending on the airline and route. Notable airlines that operate from this airport include Alaska Airlines, Aeromexico, and American Airlines.

Top routes to San Mateo

• Los Angeles (LAX) to San Mateo (ZLO/PVR), with one-way flights starting at around $120
• Tijuana (TIJ) to San Mateo (ZLO/PVR), with one-way flight options from around $45
• San Francisco (SFO) to San Mateo (ZLO/PVR), with one-way tickets available from around $140
• Seattle (SEA) to San Mateo (ZLO/PVR), with one-way flight options from around $160
• Chicago (ORD/MDW) to San Mateo (ZLO/PVR), with one-way tickets available from around $160

Cheapest routes to San Mateo

• Morelia (MLM) to San Mateo (PVR), with affordable one-way prices from around $25
• Toluca (TLC) to San Mateo (PVR), with budget one-way fares from around $30
• Guadalajara (GDL) to San Mateo (PVR), with budget one-way fares from around $35
• Zumpango (NLU) to San Mateo (PVR), with budget one-way fares from around $35
• Queretaro (QRO) to San Mateo (PVR), with low one-way fares from around $35

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to San Mateo

• American Airlines: This airline operates flights to Playa de Oro International Airport (ZLO) and Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR), making up about 28% of arrivals in San Mateo. The typical one-way fare is around $320, and premium cabin options may feature business class depending on the specific route.
• United: Offering service to Playa de Oro International Airport (ZLO) and Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR), United represents approximately 17% of arrivals to San Mateo. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of about $300, with business class as a premium service option on select routes.
• Delta: With flights to Playa de Oro International Airport (ZLO) and Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR), Delta captures around 12% of arrivals to San Mateo. The average one-way fare is roughly $290, and depending on the route, premium cabins may include business class service.
• Alaska Airlines: Serving both Playa de Oro International Airport (ZLO) and Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR), Alaska Airlines accounts for approximately 10% of arrivals to San Mateo. The average one-way fare is about $290, and premium service may feature both business and first-class options based on the route.
• Volaris: This airline operates to Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) and represents around 6% of arrivals in San Mateo. Travelers can anticipate an average one-way fare of approximately $160.

Best time to fly to San Mateo

The most popular months for travelers to fly to San Mateo are January, February, and March, when peak temperatures in San Mateo can reach up to 75.2°F in March. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 79.5°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $212), roughly 13% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? August, July, and June offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $214 to $229, making them good options for flexible travelers.

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to San Mateo

Getting some of the best deals on flights to San Mateo is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia.*
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your San Mateo flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in San Mateo

San Mateo welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach San Mateo efficiently:

• Public transportation: From Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport, several key transport options are conveniently accessible by car: Marina Vallarta Seaport, located about 1.4 miles away, and Puerto Vallarta Bus Terminal, approximately 1.7 miles from the airport. Additionally, the Cruise Ship Terminal is around 2.6 miles away, making it easy for travelers to reach these destinations.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in San Mateo, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in San Mateo is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in San Mateo on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay around San Mateo

• Pérula: Located 3 miles drive away from San Mateo, Pérula is a charming city that beckons travelers with its blend of beach, outdoor, and adventure experiences. The highlight of this destination is the beautiful Isla Cocinas Beach, ideal for a relaxing beach vacation. Explore the vibrant Perula Square and immerse yourself in local culture at the Church of Saint Matthew. With access to a public market and a golf course, visitors can enjoy an array of activities while surrounded by stunning nature reserves and family-friendly beaches.
• Chamela: Chamela is situated 3 miles drive away from San Mateo and is a fantastic spot for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. This lively city offers thrilling adventure activities and delightful local markets. Don't miss the scenic El Negrito beach, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. For breathtaking views, head to El Mirador Vatillo lookout, ideal for romantic outings or adventurous hikes. With pristine beaches like Xametla nearby, Chamela is a great choice for those seeking a blend of nature and excitement.
• Quemaro: Quemaro is located 7 miles drive away from San Mateo, offering a picturesque escape for outdoor and adventure seekers. This scenic city invites exploration with its nearby beaches and nature reserves. Key points of interest include the popular Perula Square and Isla Cocinas Beach, both perfect for a leisurely day by the water. Culture enthusiasts can visit the Church of Saint Matthew, while the local markets provide a taste of the region's vibrant lifestyle. Quemaro's striking landscapes make it a memorable stop for any traveler.

Tips for short-haul flights to San Mateo

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize space by using travel-sized toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and coordinating outfits ahead of time. This strategy also allows you to bypass the baggage claim line upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights might lack in-flight entertainment options. To stay occupied, download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts beforehand, and consider bringing a book. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to keep hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to San Mateo

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often provide complimentary seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may allow seat selection even earlier.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to be at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and widely available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin synchronizing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to San Mateo

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to San Mateo on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

October is the cheapest month to fly to San Mateo. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to San Mateo. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to San Mateo, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to San Mateo

The lowest price for round-trip flights to San Mateo in 2026 starts from $396, while one-way tickets start from from $183. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to San Mateo. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to San Mateo

Delta, Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to San Mateo. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to San Mateo and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for San Mateo, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to San Mateo. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your San Mateo plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to San Mateo

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to San Mateo.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to San Mateo are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to San Mateo. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to San Mateo for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to San Mateo. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate San Mateo flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to San Mateo. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.