✈️ Flight Guide: Nashville (BNA) → Chicago (MDW)

December travelers between Nashville International Airport (BNA) and Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) can enjoy rich holiday programming in both cities. In Chicago, don't miss Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, and Lincoln Park ZooLights. In Nashville, enjoy the Gaylord Opryland's Holiday festivities, downtown tree-lighting events, and seasonal performances at the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium. These events draw crowds, so factor event schedules into your travel plans and book hotels and transportation early for December travel.

The best time to fly from Nashville International Airport (BNA) to Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) in December is midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) and during early morning hours when fares are typically lower and weather crews have had time to clear airports. Avoid peak holiday travel days (the weeks around Christmas and New Year's Eve) when prices rise and flights fill. Book 3–8 weeks ahead for December trips to balance price and availability, and consider refundable or flexible fares if you need last-minute changes due to winter storms.

Direct nonstop flights from Nashville International Airport (BNA) to Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) are the quickest and usually the most reliable option in December, minimizing exposure to missed connections caused by winter weather. Connecting itineraries can be cheaper or offer more scheduling flexibility but increase risk of delay, especially when connections are tight during snow events. For holiday travel, prefer nonstop flights when possible; if you choose a connecting option, allow generous connection times and stick with a single carrier or alliance to simplify rebooking if delays occur.

Southwest Airlines often offers the most frequent and competitive schedule between Nashville International Airport (BNA) and Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), with two free checked bags and flexible rebooking policies that are attractive for December holiday travel. American Airlines may offer connecting service or limited direct flights with a different loyalty program and fee structure; legacy carriers sometimes charge more for checked baggage but provide extensive schedule options and partner connections. When comparing airlines, factor in total trip cost (including baggage fees), schedule convenience, winter reliability, and loyalty benefits—book with the carrier that best matches your priorities for a December trip.

Pack smart for December flights between Nashville International Airport (BNA) and Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW): bring layers, a warm coat, and essential medications in carry-on luggage in case checked bags are delayed. Check flights before leaving for the airport, allow extra time for snow-related traffic, and enroll in airline alerts for rebooking options. Consider refundable fares or travel insurance for holiday travel, and keep a printed and digital copy of important documents. At both airports, use mobile boarding passes and contactless payment where possible to move through security and concessions more quickly.

Nonstop flights from Nashville International Airport (BNA) to Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) usually take about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours airborne. December schedules often include multiple daily options on carriers like Southwest and American, with additional connecting options via hubs for more timing flexibility. Peak departure times are early morning and late afternoon to accommodate business travelers and holiday schedules—book earlier flights in December to reduce the chance of weather-related cancellations. Check airline schedules frequently in December, as carriers may add or reduce frequencies based on demand and winter operations.

To find cheap flights from Nashville International Airport (BNA) to Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) in December, start monitoring fares in October–November and set price alerts on multiple search engines. Be flexible with departure days—Tuesdays and Wednesdays often show lower fares—and consider early morning or late evening flights for better deals. Southwest frequently posts December sale fares for MDW routes, so check both the Southwest website and aggregators; remember Southwest doesn't list on some third-party sites, so compare directly. Use location-based modifiers like 'cheap nonstop Nashville to Chicago' when searching and book once you see a strong dip, as holiday inventory can move quickly. CTA: Set a fare alert now to capture the next BNA to MDW December deal.