Peak hours on BART (Pleasanton, Dublin: transfer, airport, train)

[OhioToCO]

I'm flying into SFO tomorrow, arriving around 5:00. From there I need to take BART to East Bay. I'm transferring at Balboa Park onto Dublin/Pleasanton line. I will have my luggage with me, and would like to avoid a crowded train, if I can.
I imagine that around 5:30 it's going to be very full with commuters leaving work and going home. I was on the reverse route - going from East Bay to airport Thursday morning, and it was very full.
I don't mind hanging out at the airport, possibly even getting dinner there, as long as I can eventually get on a semi-empty train. What time does the peak hour generally end?

[jade408]

I don't ride the Dublin line much but I find these days there is no off peak in the evening. I have taken it at all times from 5-12 and it is packed, often standing room only. It slows down a bit from about 8-9. Then picks up again. I'd just go home. At Balboa you should have your pick of seats.

[NorCalLover]

You should be fine finding space for your bags by transferring at Balboa Park. I sometimes take BART from 24th & Mission toward the East Bay at rush hour and don't remember ever having problems getting a seat. It should be even quieter two stops earlier. Just stake out space for yourself and your luggage before the crowds hit the trains downtown.

[shooting4life]

You'll be fine and have a seat, train will become standing room only around Powell.

[OhioToCO]

Thank you all, the ride was very easy. I boarded at SFO at 6:30 pm today. Not many people even while riding through downtown. It was standing room only there, but not too crowded. Nothing like I experienced Thursday morning during the morning rush.