Getting from SFO to SJC
 

I want to fly into SFO and take a few days vacation in San Francisco before heading to a conference in the San Jose area. The conference director will arrange to pick me up at the San Jose airport. But how do I get between the two? I'll have 3 suitcases (1 is large), so public transportation is not an option. I found a list of shuttle buses between airports but would have to call them all to get times and prices. Any recommendations? And how much time should I allow?

Supershuttle type van services are expensive - you might be better off with a one-day car rental, as many firms do not charge a drop fee if you pick up at SFO and return to SJC. The rates may be higher if you rent in downtown SF. You should be able to complete the drive in an under an hour, assuming you are not travelling during rush hour.

There really aren't any great public transit options. Caltrain is cheap and takes approx 1-1.5 hours (a.m. and p.m. rush hour express trains are faster), but they don't have porters at the stations so you would have to schlep your own luggage to the trains. Vans from SFO to SJC are expensive, and the cab fare would run well over $100 from downtown SF.

Thanks for the info. Wasn't even considering a taxi; knew that would be expensive!

The cheapest and fastest way way to go is probably the train. If taking a bus to the train would be too challenging, maybe a cab to the CalTrain station, and ask the pick-up to meet you at the Santa Clara station? It is much easier for a driver to get to that train station than through the mess near the airport construction these days.

There are cars with large luggage racks on CalTrain these days - look for the decal on the outside of the car. Details are on www.caltrain.com, train fare should be about $5.50 SF to Santa Clara.

From SFO:
I would recommend you take the south and east bay shuttle (or super shuttle). Fares will be around $30 or a little bit more. For Super shuttle, you can just catch one upon arrival. For South and easy bay shuttle, you need to book it ahead of time.

Another option is to hire a sedan in advance (about $50 plus tip).

Taking the Airtran to Bart to Caltrain to Shuttle bus will be difficult with three suitcases.

From San Francisco:
Pay to hire a sedan. It'll be worth it. Or find a nice flyertalker to help you out.

You might look into renting a car for 1 day and driving. Many rental companies do not charge for a drop off between SFO and SJC.