Cheap Flights to Chicago

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Cheap Tickets to Chicago

These prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices quoted are per person, return, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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Chicago Flights

Although this city is filled with all of the usual hustle and bustle, it still manages to maintain its laid-back, Midwestern American charm.
Travellers gather to this destination to soak up some culture at the Chicago Cultural Centre, see the water show at the Buckingham Fountain, or get a view of the city from the Hancock Observatory.
Food enthusiasts delight in a plethora of dining options downtown, while nature lovers enjoy the Grant Park Rose Gardens. With no shortage of things to do, tourists abound in this city. Despite this, cheap flights to Chicago are easy to find most of the year.

Best time to go to Chicago

Peak Season:

Flights to Chicago are at their most expensive from June through September. Although it’s humid, the temperature is warm and beautiful, making it a great time to discover Lake Michigan, or stroll through Humboldt Park.

Shoulder Season:

April and May, and October to December make up the shoulder season in Chicago. Crowds thin out during these cooler months, so this is a fantastic time to either take the Hop On Hop Off city tour, visit the Museum of Science and Industry, or peacefully wander through the Navy Pier.

Off Season:

Due to the bitter weather from January through March, flights are inexpensive and tourists are few. Although it can be chilly, this is one of the best times to indulge in one of the many indoor activities, like seeing a performance at The Second City comedy theatre or the Lyric Opera, dancing at Enclave, or exploring the Shedd Aquarium.

Chicago Airport and transfer information

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
Distance: 27km northwest of city centre
Offering door-to-door service at a reasonable price, the Go Airport Express shuttle bus is one of the most convenient methods of ground transport. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or a public bus. Both take around 25 - 90 minutes to arrive at your destination.
Taxis can be expensive, but are one of the more flexible options. Buses buses are inexpensive, but are sometimes delayed. Car rentals are also available at a higher price.

Online resources for your travel to Chicago

http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/destinations/unitedstates.shtmlOpens in a new window
The Safetravel website provides details on travel safety, as well as information on entry requirements and important local contacts.
http://www.flychicago.com/About/OHare/Default.aspxOpens in a new window
The Chicago O'Hare International Airport website offers details on flights, services, and ground transport.

Frequently asked questions

What is the name of Chicago's airport?
Chicago has more than one airport, but most travellers fly into O’Hare Intl. Airport (ORD).
How far is O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD) from central Chicago?
ORD is 26 kilometres from downtown Chicago, so be prepared for a bit of a journey into the city.
What airport is best to fly into Chicago?
If you’re jumping on a plane to Chicago, you’ll most likely land at O’Hare Intl. Airport (ORD) (26 kilometres from downtown). Midway Intl. Airport (MDW) (14 kilometres from downtown) is the other major airport here.
How many airlines fly to Chicago?
Chicago is serviced by 45 air carriers from at least 220 worldwide airports.
Which airlines fly to Chicago?
In general, travellers fly with American Airlines, United Airlines and Delta Air Lines when going to Chicago. The largest number of these flights come in from Queens Village, with American Airlines flying this route the most frequently.
How many nonstop flights are there to Chicago?
Arranging an unforgettable Chicago getaway is a cinch when there are 8 014 nonstop flights each week to pick from.
Where are the most popular flights to Chicago departing from?
Travellers frequently depart from Atlanta, Denver and Dallas airports when heading to Chicago.
How long is the flight to Chicago Airport?
If you’re flying to Chicago from Queens Village, you’re looking at a flight duration of 2 hours and 34 minutes. Those leaving from Washington can expect to be travelling for 2 hours and 5 minutes. From Denver it’s approximately 2 hours and 23 minutes away.
How to book the cheapest flight to Chicago?
Don’t leave locking in your flight to Chicago until the very last minute. That’s one move well-versed travellers use to get the best deals. Booking in advance means more options and cheaper flights. Don’t stop there, though. Do some research and see if there is more than one airport at your destination. Ticket prices often differ depending on which airport you pick. Make sure you compare fares across airlines too. And finally, remember that the early bird catches the worm. Know what a typical airfare costs and have your credit card ready to book your ticket as soon as you see a great bargain. The best deals never last long.
How to survive the flight to Chicago?
If you’re not prepared, airports and flying can be testing. But don’t hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a trouble-free start to your getaway in Chicago.What to pack in your hand luggage:

  • It’s simple — first, pack in your passport, important documents, cash and daily medications. Next, you’ll want some entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop crammed with your favourite movies are some fantastic options. If you intend to take a short snooze, a quality neck pillow and a pair of noise-cancelling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

  • While the list of prohibited items differs between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes knives, scissors, spray paint and flares. Sporting equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm passengers, such as pepper spray and firearms, can’t come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

  • Your number one priority is to be as comfortable as possible. Layer up with loose, breathable clothing and remember to bring a pullover in case it gets cool in the cabin. Pick a pair of well-fitting, flat shoes as it’s possible that your feet and ankles will swell a little during the journey. Leave the high heels and hiking boots in your checked baggage.
  • The serious condition by the name of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a potential risk on long-haul flights. It’s the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation. Walking up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises while seated is a great way to prevent this from happening. Wearing a quality pair of compression socks or tights is also recommended.

How to get through airport security fast when flying to Chicago?
A little pre-planning before your flight can make your getaway to Chicago easy and painless. Check out our handy tips and tricks for a stress-free journey past security:

  • First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them within easy reach to avoid fumbling around for them.
  • Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your headphones, will need to go on a tray through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as it gets closer to your turn.
  • All your electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, are also required to be separately scanned.
  • Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray separately. Each product should be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-lock bag.
  • Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you’re less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
  • Sharp or pointed objects (like knives and scissors) can’t be taken on board. They’ll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.

Flights to Chicago information
Destination airport
Midway Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
MDW
Destination city name
Chicago
Return price
NZ$243

Trending flights to Chicago

These prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices quoted are per person, return, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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