Landing at Travis Air Force Base

About Travis AFB — The Gateway to the Pacific

Travis Air Force Base sits three miles east of Fairfield, California, in Solano County, roughly halfway between Sacramento and San Francisco. The base earned its nickname, “Gateway to the Pacific,” because it is the largest military air terminal in the United States — moving more cargo and passengers than any other military installation in the country. If you are looking for a high-ops-tempo assignment with real-world global impact, Travis delivers exactly that.

Mission and Major Units

The host unit is the 60th Air Mobility Wing, the largest wing in Air Mobility Command. The mission is strategic airlift, aerial refueling, and aeromedical evacuation in support of global operations — 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The aircraft that make that happen include the C-5 Galaxy, C-17 Globemaster III, and KC-46 Pegasus. Tenant units include the 349th Air Mobility Wing (reserve), the 15th Expeditionary Mobility Task Force, and the 615th Contingency Response Wing, along with more than 18 other tenant organizations. The installation is home to approximately 14,000 active-duty Airmen, 2,850 reservists, and 3,770 DoD civilian employees — a total installation population of 35,000 to 40,000 including contractors.

A Quick History

Travis was established in 1942 as Fairfield-Suisun Army Air Base to support the Pacific campaign in World War II. It was renamed Travis Air Force Base in 1951 to honor Brigadier General Robert F. Travis, who was killed when his B-29 crashed on the runway shortly after takeoff in 1950. The 60th Air Mobility Wing has been the host unit since 1966, and the base has served as the premier airlift hub on the West Coast ever since.

Location and Climate

Travis sits squarely between Sacramento (45 miles northeast) and San Francisco (55 miles southwest). The nearest commercial airports are Sacramento International (SMF) about 55 miles away and Oakland International (OAK) about 50 miles to the south. The climate is Mediterranean — summers run hot and dry with temperatures regularly hitting the 90s, but a daily evening “Delta Breeze” rolling in off the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta cools things down by late afternoon. Winters are mild and wet (November through March), with no snow but occasional dense “Tule Fog” that can create hazardous driving conditions on the highway. Spring and fall are genuinely beautiful.

2026 BAH Rates at Travis AFB

Travis AFB falls under the Vallejo/Travis AFB Military Housing Area (MHA). In 2026, BAH rates at Travis increased 3.8% from 2025 and rank 7th highest among all Air Force bases in the country. That sounds reassuring — and the rates are genuinely high — but Northern California rents can still eat up your entire BAH at the mid-enlisted level. Budget carefully and plan your housing before you arrive. Use the official DoD BAH Calculator at DTMO to confirm your exact rate. For a full breakdown of 2026 rates nationwide, see the 2026 BAH Rates Guide.

Pay Grade	With Dependents (2026)
E-1 through E-4	$3,090 / month
E-5	$3,369 / month
E-6	$3,498 / month
E-7	$3,516 / month
E-8	$3,525 / month
E-9	$3,597 / month
O-3	$3,636 / month
O-5 and above	$3,927 – $3,987 / month

Without-dependents rates are typically 16–19% lower. Use the official DTMO BAH calculator for your exact without-dependents rate by pay grade.

If you plan to use your VA Home Loan at Travis, your BAH can be counted as income on your loan application — a significant advantage in a high-cost market. Talk to a VA-specialized lender before you arrive so you know exactly what your purchasing power looks like in Solano County.

On-Base Housing at Travis AFB

Travis Family Homes — What You Need to Know

On-base housing at Travis is privatized and managed by Travis Family Homes (Hunt Military Communities). The communities are well-maintained with a variety of home styles and neighborhoods, and living on base puts you closest to the gate, schools, and facilities. However, there is one reality every incoming family needs to hear before arrival: the waitlist is exceptionally long — often 18 months or more for some housing categories. Many families complete an entire 2–3 year tour at Travis and never receive an on-base offer. Plan for off-base from day one. Do not assume you will get on-base housing within your first year.

How to Start the Housing Process

Use the Housing Early Assistance Tool (HEAT) through Travis Family Homes as soon as you have orders. HEAT does not place you on the waitlist, but it allows you to begin contact with a housing counselor and submit an advance application. The formal waitlist application must be submitted to the Air Force Military Housing Office (MHO) within 30 days of arrival with all required documents, including your LES and orders. Visit travisfamilyhomes.com to start the process and review floor plans.

Housing Resource	Contact
Travis Family Homes Website	travisfamilyhomes.com
Air Force Housing (MHO)	housing.af.mil
Base Lodging / TLF (Westwind Inn)	(707) 424-8000

Temporary Lodging Facilities (TLFs) at the Westwind Inn prioritize incoming PCS families, but availability is limited, especially during peak PCS season (May–August). Book as early as possible. Maximum stays are typically capped at 30 days, with extensions possible on a space-available basis. Pet-friendly rooms exist but are extremely limited — call ahead.

Off-Base Housing and Neighborhoods

The Northern California housing market is competitive and expensive. A 3-bedroom rental near Travis typically runs $2,800 to $4,000+ per month, and median home purchase prices in Solano County exceed $500,000. Your BAH will cover most of your housing cost at most pay grades, but many families — especially junior enlisted — find they need to budget carefully to avoid coming out of pocket. Here is an honest look at the neighborhoods where Travis families most often land.

Vacaville

Vacaville is the most popular choice for Travis families, and for good reason. The schools are highly rated, the community is family-oriented, and the shopping options are excellent — including a large premium outlet mall. The commute runs 15 to 25 minutes under normal traffic conditions. The trade-off is price: Vacaville is one of the more expensive sub-markets in Solano County. Expect to pay a premium for that school quality and family-friendly vibe.

Fairfield

Fairfield sits directly adjacent to the base and offers the shortest commute — as little as 5 minutes to the main gate. It also has the widest range of housing types and price points, making it the most accessible option for junior enlisted families. Neighborhood quality varies significantly by area, so research specific zip codes and streets before committing. The central location means quick access to base amenities, I-80, and everything in between.

Dixon

Dixon offers a quieter, more rural lifestyle west of Vacaville. The schools have a strong reputation and the small-town atmosphere appeals to families who want to decompress at home after long days on the flight line. Commute time runs 20 to 30 minutes. Prices are still high by national standards but tend to come in slightly below Vacaville. If you have school-age kids and want a calmer pace of life, Dixon is worth serious consideration.

Suisun City

Suisun City sits just outside the main gate with waterfront access to Suisun Bay and a revitalized downtown area. It offers some of the most affordable housing in the immediate area. The commute is extremely short — under 15 minutes in most cases. Suisun has a quieter, small-town character and is particularly popular with families who want proximity to base without the Fairfield price tag.

Benicia and Vallejo

Benicia and Vallejo offer a more distinct Bay Area feel with historic waterfronts, older neighborhoods, and easy access to the Carquinez Strait. They are popular with families who want to feel closer to San Francisco culture. The trade-off is commute: depending on bridge traffic on I-680 and I-80, the drive to Travis can run 30 to 50 minutes — and significantly longer during rush hour. These cities are better suited to families with flexible schedules or those working shifts that avoid peak traffic windows.

Ready to think through the buy-vs-rent decision? A VA Home Loan specialist can walk you through what your BAH covers and whether buying in Solano County makes sense for your timeline. Many Travis families use their VA benefit here and build equity in a market that has historically appreciated. The PCS Toolkit also has resources to help you think through the full housing decision before you commit.

Medical Care at Travis AFB

David Grant USAF Medical Center

David Grant USAF Medical Center (DGMC) is the Air Force’s largest medical facility on the West Coast and one of the premier military treatment facilities in the entire DoD. It is a full-service tertiary care hospital with Level II trauma capability and a comprehensive range of specialty services including oncology, cardiology, obstetrics, orthopedics, and mental health. DGMC serves over 86,000 TRICARE beneficiaries across the Northern California Prime Service Area. For a high-medical-need family or active-duty member enrolled in EFMP, Travis is one of the best assignments in the Air Force for on-site care.

Service	Location / Phone	Hours
DGMC Main (101 Bodin Circle, Bldg 777)	(707) 423-3000 / (800) 264-3462	Mon–Fri 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Pharmacy Refill Line	(707) 943-8565	Mon–Fri 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
ScriptCenter Pickup Lockers (BX Mini Mall)	Text “get in line” to (855) 803-4450	Mon–Fri 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sick Call Walk-In	DGMC — Bldg 777	Mon–Fri 7:30 – 9 a.m.
TRICARE Information	travis.tricare.mil	—

EFMP at Travis

Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) enrollment is coordinated through DGMC and the Airman and Family Readiness Center. Enrollment is required before PCS orders are finalized if you have a family member with special medical or educational needs. The Bay Area’s extensive network of specialty providers makes Travis one of the stronger EFMP assignments in the Air Force — both on-base care and referral options are well-developed. Contact the EFMP office before your PCS to confirm your family member’s specific needs can be met.

Schools Near Travis AFB

On-Base Schools

Travis AFB does not have DoDEA schools. However, children living on the installation attend the Travis Unified School District (TUSD), a small district that serves the base community with schools located on or directly adjacent to the installation. Two elementary schools operate on base: Travis Elementary School and Scandia Elementary School, both serving kindergarten through 6th grade. TUSD is highly regarded and benefits from a concentrated military family population — staff tend to be experienced with the unique needs of PCS kids. Contact TUSD at (707) 437-4604 or visit 2751 De Ronde Drive, Fairfield, CA 94535.

Off-Base School Districts

Where you live off base determines your school district. Families in Fairfield and Suisun City generally fall under Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District. Families in Vacaville attend Vacaville Unified School District, which includes three high schools, two middle schools, ten elementary schools, and one K-8 school — and is consistently praised for its academic quality and extracurricular options. Families in Dixon attend Dixon Unified School District. Research school boundaries carefully before signing a lease or purchase contract, as a single street can divide districts in this area. California school ratings are available through the California Department of Education.

District	Serves	Notes
Travis Unified (TUSD)	On-base families	Travis and Scandia Elementary on base (K–6)
Fairfield-Suisun Unified	Fairfield / Suisun City	Most options; quality varies by school
Vacaville Unified (VUSD)	Vacaville / north of Alamo Drive	Highly rated; popular with military families
Dixon Unified (DUSD)	Dixon	Smaller district; strong reputation

Childcare on Base

Travis AFB operates three Child Development Centers (CDCs) offering full-day care for infants, toddlers, and preschool-age children, along with school-year care programs for school-age kids. CDCs are in extremely high demand — register at MilitaryChildCare.com the moment you receive orders, not when you arrive. Off-base childcare is widely available in Fairfield, Vacaville, and surrounding communities but is expensive, reflecting Northern California’s overall cost of living. The Youth Center on base also offers programs for teens ages 13–18 through the Boys and Girls Club; call (707) 424-5392 for information.

Base Amenities and Services

Commissary and Exchange

Travis has a large, modern Commissary and Base Exchange (BX) complex that serves the substantial base population across Solano County. With the high cost of groceries in Northern California, the Commissary is genuinely valuable here — families consistently report meaningful savings versus shopping in town. The BX complex includes retail, auto parts, a food court, barber and beauty services, and specialty shops.

MWR and Recreation

Morale, Welfare, and Recreation at Travis is exceptional by Air Force standards. Standout facilities and programs include:

• Cypress Lakes Golf Course — 18-hole course on the installation
• Travis Marina — watercraft and boating access to the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, one of the most extensive inland waterway systems in the US
• Horse Stables — boarding and riding programs on base
• Outdoor Recreation (ODR) — organized trips to Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, Napa Valley, and beyond; equipment rentals for camping, skiing, and water sports
• Warrior Fitness Center — full-service fitness facility with indoor and outdoor pools, basketball, tennis, and racquetball courts

Jimmy Doolittle Air and Space Museum

The Jimmy Doolittle Air and Space Museum on base houses a remarkable collection of historic aircraft including World War II-era planes and Cold War jets. It is free for military families and open to the public with base access. If you have history-loving kids or guests visiting from out of town, this is a highlight of a Travis tour.

Facility / Service	Phone / Website
Base Operator	(707) 424-1110
Base Locator	(707) 424-2798
Lodging / TLF (Westwind Inn)	(707) 424-8000
MPF / In-Processing	(707) 424-8359
Youth Center	(707) 424-5392
Travis AFB Official Website	travis.af.mil
MilitaryINSTALLATIONS (full directory)	MilitaryOneSource

Space-A Travel from Travis AFB

If there is one perk at Travis that stands above every other installation on the West Coast, it is Space-A travel. Travis is the busiest Space-A hub on the West Coast, with more missions to more global destinations than any other CONUS terminal in the Pacific. For Hawaii, it is unmatched — multiple missions per week fly to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam from Travis. Regular Space-A destinations also include Guam, Yokota AB (Japan), JB Elmendorf-Richardson (Alaska), Okinawa, Osan AB (Korea), and Ramstein AB (Germany). If you want to reach Europe from the West Coast, Travis typically has at least one Ramstein mission per month. The passenger terminal operates around the clock, with Passenger Service Center hours running 0400–2200 daily. Long-term parking is managed by Outdoor Recreation — call (707) 424-0969 for the wait list.

Follow the Travis Passenger Terminal on the AMC Travel Site for current 72-hour flight schedules and Space-A updates.

PCS Arrival and In-Processing

What to Expect When You Arrive

When you receive PCS orders to Travis, act quickly on your move logistics. Review your orders, then contact the Base Transportation Office to start your household goods shipment. You can do a full HHG move, a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), or a combination. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule and track your shipment. If you are new to the PPM process, the DITY/PPM Guide on PCS Pay-It-Forward® walks you through everything.

Request a sponsor through your gaining unit as early as possible — contact the unit’s first sergeant or use the MyPers sponsorship system. In-processing at Travis is handled by the 60th FSS Military Personnel Flight (MPF) in Building 381 on Airlift Drive. Newcomer orientation is scheduled regularly. Full in-processing typically takes 3–5 business days. If you arrive after MPF hours, report to the Westwind Inn (Building 402) on Travis Avenue. Dislocation Allowance (DLA) and Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) help offset costs while you get settled — make sure your finance records are updated immediately upon in-processing. For PCS tax write-off questions, see the PCS Tax Write-Off Guide.

Gate Access and Visitor Information

The Travis Avenue main gate operates 24/7. The Visitor Control Center (VCC) issues day passes for civilian visitors. CAC access is required for unescorted entry. Non-CAC visitors must present a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or passport. The Air Base Gate and North Gate have limited hours — confirm current schedules at travis.af.mil before directing visitors.

Cost of Living Reality Check

Let’s be direct: Northern California is expensive. Travis AFB has one of the highest BAH rates in the Air Force for a reason. Gas, groceries, dining out, childcare, and state income taxes (California taxes military pay) are all meaningfully higher than national averages. Families moving from lower-cost duty stations like the Southeast or Midwest often experience genuine sticker shock in their first month. Here is what experienced Travis families want you to know before you arrive:

• Budget for groceries off base — even with the Commissary, you will spend more on food than you did at your last duty station
• California state income tax applies to military pay — factor this into your monthly budget immediately
• I-80 traffic toward the Bay Area is brutal during rush hour — if your job or lifestyle takes you toward San Francisco regularly, plan for 90 minutes each way during peak hours
• Your BAH will likely be fully consumed by rent alone at the E-5 and below level in Vacaville or Fairfield — utilities, renter’s insurance, and other costs come out of base pay
• Take BART, not your car, into San Francisco — drive to a nearby BART station (Vallejo ferry, Fairfield/Vacaville Bus, or Suisun Amtrak connecting to BART) and take it the rest of the way

The good news: your VA Home Loan is one of the most powerful tools you have in this market. A $0-down purchase with no PMI in a market with strong long-term appreciation can generate meaningful equity over a 3-year tour. Talk to a VA-specialized lender before you arrive. See the PCS Toolkit for budgeting worksheets and housing decision resources.

Things to Do Near Travis AFB

Local Must-Do Experiences

One of the most-cited benefits of a Travis tour is sheer access to world-class experiences within a reasonable drive. Wine country, the Pacific Coast, mountain wilderness, and one of America’s most iconic cities are all within reach of a Saturday morning. Here is how Travis families typically think about the area:

• Napa Valley and Sonoma (30–45 min) — the most famous wine region in North America is in your backyard
• San Francisco (1 hr) — Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, Ferry Building Marketplace, world-class dining, and neighborhoods unlike anywhere else in the country
• Sacramento (45 min) — California’s capital has Old Sacramento’s waterfront, the California State Railroad Museum, and a growing food and arts scene
• Jelly Belly Factory, Fairfield (10 min) — free factory tours and a genuinely fun afternoon with kids
• Point Reyes National Seashore (1.5 hrs) — dramatic Pacific coastline and some of the best hiking in Northern California

Weekend Trips Worth the Drive

Destination	Drive Time	Highlight
Lake Tahoe	2.5 – 3 hours	World-class skiing in winter; hiking, boating, and beaches in summer
Yosemite National Park	3 – 4 hours	El Capitan, Half Dome, giant sequoias — reserve park entry in advance
Monterey and Carmel	2.5 hours	Monterey Bay Aquarium, 17-Mile Drive, Carmel-by-the-Sea
Redwood National and State Parks	5 – 6 hours	Walk among the tallest living things on Earth
Reno, Nevada	2.5 hours	Casino entertainment, no state income tax shopping, and Tahoe access

Your VA Home Loan at Travis AFB

Northern California is one of the most expensive real estate markets in the country — and your VA Home Loan benefit is specifically built to help you compete in it. Zero down payment, no private mortgage insurance, and competitive interest rates mean you can get into a Solano County home with less out-of-pocket cost than any other loan type available. Families who buy at Travis and sell after a 3-year tour have frequently walked away with significant equity gains. Whether you’re buying for the first time or using your benefit again, the VA Home Loan guide on PCS Pay-It-Forward® explains exactly how the process works. Connect with a VA-specialized lender before your PCS so you arrive ready to move fast in this market.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travis AFB

How long is the on-base housing waitlist at Travis AFB?

The waitlist for on-base housing at Travis is exceptionally long — commonly 18 months or more for many housing categories. Many families complete an entire tour at Travis without ever receiving a housing offer. Plan for off-base housing from day one and use the waitlist as a bonus rather than a plan.

What are the 2026 BAH rates at Travis AFB?

Travis AFB falls under the Vallejo/Travis AFB Military Housing Area. 2026 BAH rates with dependents range from $3,090/month for E-1 through E-4 up to $3,987/month for senior officers. The rates increased 3.8% from 2025 and rank 7th highest among all Air Force bases. Use the official DTMO BAH Calculator to confirm your exact rate by pay grade.

What neighborhoods do Travis AFB families most often choose?

Vacaville is the top choice for families with school-age children due to its highly rated schools, family-friendly environment, and 15–25 minute commute. Fairfield offers the most affordable options and shortest commute (5–20 minutes). Dixon appeals to families wanting a quieter, smaller-town lifestyle. Suisun City is the most affordable option closest to the gate.

What hospital serves Travis AFB?

David Grant USAF Medical Center (DGMC) is the Air Force’s largest medical facility on the West Coast. It is a full-service tertiary care hospital with Level II trauma capability and extensive specialty services. DGMC is located at 101 Bodin Circle (Bldg 777) on base. Call (707) 423-3000 for appointments or (800) 264-3462 for TRICARE inquiries. Visit travis.tricare.mil for complete services and hours.

Is Travis AFB good for Space-A travel?

Travis is the premier Space-A hub on the West Coast. No other CONUS base has as many missions to Hawaii, Guam, Japan, and Alaska. Regular Space-A destinations include Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (multiple times per week), Yokota AB, JB Elmendorf-Richardson, Ramstein AB, and Osan AB. Call the passenger terminal at (707) 424-0969 or follow the AMC Travel Site for current 72-hour schedules.

What school districts serve Travis AFB families?

Children living on base attend the Travis Unified School District (TUSD), with Travis Elementary and Scandia Elementary serving K–6 on the installation. Off-base families attend Fairfield-Suisun Unified, Vacaville Unified (VUSD), or Dixon Unified depending on neighborhood. Vacaville Unified is consistently rated the strongest district in the area. Research school boundaries carefully before signing a lease, as district lines can divide streets in the same neighborhood.

What aircraft does Travis AFB fly?

The 60th Air Mobility Wing flies the C-5 Galaxy, C-17 Globemaster III, and KC-46 Pegasus — a mix of heavy strategic airlift and aerial refueling platforms. The 349th Air Mobility Wing (reserve) operates the same aircraft. The mission is 24/7 global airlift, air refueling, and aeromedical evacuation in support of combatant commands worldwide.

How long does Travis AFB in-processing take?

Full in-processing at Travis typically takes 3–5 business days. Report to the 60th FSS MPF in-processing section in Building 381 on Airlift Drive. If you arrive after hours or on a weekend, check in at the Westwind Inn (Building 402) on Travis Avenue. Call MPF at (707) 424-8359 for appointment scheduling and newcomer orientation information.

Can I use my VA Home Loan at Travis AFB?

Absolutely — and given Northern California’s real estate market, the VA Home Loan is one of the smartest tools available to you at Travis. Zero down payment, no PMI, and competitive interest rates give you a real advantage in a market where prices regularly exceed $500,000. Many Travis families have built significant equity through a single tour. Visit the VA Home Loan page on PCS Pay-It-Forward® to learn how to get started.

Key Takeaways

• Start your PCS Plan early — housing decisions at Travis are more consequential than at most bases because of the cost of living. Use the PCS Plan tool to map out your timeline, budget, and housing options before arrival.
• Do not count on on-base housing — the waitlist is 18+ months for most categories. Have a solid off-base plan ready from day one.
• Budget for California — BAH is high but so is everything else. Gas, groceries, childcare, and state income tax will all be higher than your last duty station.
• Vacaville and Fairfield are your primary targets — Vacaville wins on schools, Fairfield wins on commute and price range. Dixon is worth considering for families who want a quieter lifestyle.
• DGMC is a major asset — Travis has one of the best military medical facilities in the country. For EFMP families especially, this is a significant benefit of the assignment.
• Space-A travel is unmatched on the West Coast — if you want to hop to Hawaii, Japan, or Europe, Travis gives you more opportunities than any other West Coast base.
• Use your VA Home Loan — Northern California is expensive, but the VA benefit is built for markets like this. Talk to a VA-specialized lender before your PCS so you’re ready to move when you arrive.
• Connect with the community before you arrive — join the Travis AFB PCS Pay-It-Forward® group today. The families already there know this market better than any website can.