Other Options for This Route
Other Destinations
Washington, D.C. (BWI) to Houston (IAH) in October from $95
From $95
Washington, D.C. (BWI) to Fort Lauderdale (FLL) in October from $113
From $113
Washington, D.C. (BWI) to Miami (MIA) in October from $115
From $115
Washington, D.C. (BWI) to Phoenix (PHX) in October from $124
From $124
Washington, D.C. (BWI) to El Paso (ELP) in October from $152
From $152
Washington, D.C. (BWI) to Las Vegas (LAS) in October from $155
From $155
Flights from Other Cities
New York (LGA) to Chicago (ORD) in October from $44
From $44
New York (Any) to Chicago (ORD) in October from $49
From $49
Miami (MIA) to Chicago (ORD) in October from $84
From $84
Philadelphia (PHL) to Chicago (ORD) in October from $85
From $85
Miami (MIA) to Chicago (ORD) in October from $93
From $93
Tampa (TPA) to Chicago (ORD) in October from $94
From $94
✈️ Flight Guide: Washington, D.C. (BWI) → Chicago (ORD)
Complete travel information for your October journey
October is a smart month to fly from Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Expect mild-to-cool temperatures at both endpoints, fewer summer tourists, and strong availability on midweek flights. Nonstop options are common; book 3–6 weeks ahead for the best October fares and set fare alerts to capture price drops. For travelers connecting to downtown Baltimore, Washington D.C., or Annapolis, plan ground transfers around local fall events. CTA: Search and compare BWI to ORD October flights now to lock in early savings and seat selection.
Departing from Washington, D.C. (BWI) FAQs
For October travel from Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD), arrive at least 90 minutes before a domestic nonstop and 2 hours before a flight if you need to check bags or travel during peak morning/evening windows. October can still have busy holiday-like peaks around Columbus Day and fall events, so give yourself extra time for parking, security (TSA), and airport shuttles. Use online check-in and TSA PreCheck/real ID to speed up the process.
Yes — multiple carriers typically operate nonstop flights between Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) and O'Hare International Airport (ORD) throughout October. Major carriers such as United and Southwest often schedule daily nonstop service; flight frequency increases on weekends and around fall events. Check airline schedules and book early for the best fares and seat selection.
Average round-trip fares from Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in October typically range from budget-friendly $110–$230 depending on how early you book, demand, and whether you choose basic economy or refundable fares. To find cheap flights, search flexible dates, set fare alerts on Google Flights or Skyscanner, and consider mid-week departures. Booking 3–6 weeks ahead for October travel often yields the best balance of price and availability.
Nonstop flight time from Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) typically ranges from 1 hour 55 minutes to 2 hours 20 minutes, depending on winds and routing. Gate-to-gate times can be slightly longer; account for taxiing and potential delays when planning connections. Use real-time trackers like FlightAware for up-to-date duration estimates on your travel day.
Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) offers multiple ground options year-round and in October: the BWI Marshall Rail Station (MARC and Amtrak shuttle), MTA buses, ride-shares, airport shuttles, and on-site rental cars. Shuttles and public transit are reliable in fall weather, but if you're heading to downtown Washington, D.C., allow extra travel time for midday traffic or special events. For Annapolis or regional suburbs, pre-book shuttle services or rental cars for the smoothest transfers.
In October, pack a light jacket for the cooler East Coast mornings and be mindful of Columbus Day weekend and fall festivals that can increase airport traffic. Check airline policies for carry-on and checked baggage before you arrive, and consider off-peak flight times (midweek or midday) to avoid crowds. Monitor weather forecasts — coastal storms can occasionally affect flights — and sign up for airline alerts to stay informed about schedule changes.
Arriving at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in October places you in the heart of Chicago's fall season. Use the CTA Blue Line for predictable access to downtown and purchase a Ventra card on arrival for convenience. If your itinerary includes Evanston or Naperville, check Metra schedules and consider ride-shares for late-night transfers. Monitor event calendars — the Chicago Marathon and fall festivals can increase demand for rides and hotels, so pre-book transfers when possible. CTA and Metra timetable links and airline notifications are essential tools during October travel. CTA/Metra ticket CTA: Plan your ORD arrival logistics now and reserve shuttles or rides for a smooth October trip.
Arriving at Chicago (ORD) FAQs
When you land at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in October, expect cooler temperatures and possible wind; fall weather can be brisk in Chicago. ORD is a major hub with multiple terminals, so follow signs for baggage claim or connecting flights and allow additional time for ground transportation to downtown Chicago, Evanston, or Naperville. If arriving during peak weekend events like the Chicago Marathon (often in October), anticipate heavier crowds and longer transit times.
From O'Hare International Airport (ORD) you can take the CTA Blue Line to downtown Chicago, regional Metra trains and express buses to suburbs such as Evanston and Naperville, or use ride-shares and airport shuttles. In October, trains and buses run on regular schedules, but allow extra time for weekend events and football games at Soldier Field. For the fastest route to downtown, the Blue Line provides a predictable 45–50 minute ride depending on your final destination.
Yes — October brings major fall events to the Chicago area that increase arrivals at O'Hare International Airport (ORD), such as the Chicago Marathon, fall festivals, Oktoberfest events, and the start of cultural programming at theaters and museums. These events can raise hotel demand and flight prices, so book flights and accommodations early. Use flexible date searches to find lower fares surrounding busy event weekends.
For domestic travelers arriving at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) from Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI), baggage claim procedures are standard: follow terminal signage to your baggage carousel and contact your airline for lost or delayed bags. Customs and immigration are not required for domestic flights. If you have connections, check terminal maps in advance because ORD often requires trains or shuttle walks between some concourses.
In October, pack layers because Chicago fall weather can be variable, and monitor local traffic if you're catching a ride-share or shuttle into town. Check airline and airport notifications for construction alerts — O'Hare frequently has terminal maintenance projects that can affect moving between gates. For smoother arrival, pre-purchase transit cards or mobile tickets for CTA and Metra, and consider using curbside luggage assistance if you have heavy bags.
O'Hare International Airport (ORD) offers convenient access to downtown Chicago, the Magnificent Mile, Lincoln Park, Wrigleyville/Evanston, Naperville, Schaumburg, and suburban business parks. October is a great time to visit Chicago neighborhoods for fall color, local breweries, and cultural events. Plan transfers according to your final neighborhood — CTA for downtown, Metra or PACE for many suburbs, and rideshares for door-to-door convenience.
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October Events & Festivals Impacting BWI to ORD Travel — Baltimore to Chicago Travel Planner
October brings several high-attendance events that can affect BWI to ORD travel. The Chicago Marathon (typically early October) and fall festivals drive hotel and flight demand into O'Hare International Airport (ORD), while Baltimore hosts fall cultural events and seafood festivals that may increase outbound travel from Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI). If your travel overlaps with these events, book flights and ground transportation early, and expect higher taxi and rideshare surge pricing during peak times. CTA: Check event dates and adjust travel dates to avoid premium pricing in October.
Best Time to Fly from Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) — October Guide
For October travel, the best time to fly from Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) during midday departures, which often offer lower fares and less airport crowding. Early morning flights reduce the risk of cascading delays; evening arrivals can be good for connecting to overnight stays in downtown Chicago or suburbs like Evanston. Avoid known event weekends (marathons, Oktoberfest celebrations) to secure lower rates and easier transfers.
Direct vs. Connecting Flights — Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in October
Nonstop flights from Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) save time and reduce the risk of missed connections, typically taking about 2 hours. Connecting flights can be cheaper but increase total travel time and vulnerability to delays, especially if the connection window is tight. For October travel, choose nonstop when attending timed events in Chicago to minimize uncertainty; opt for one-stop itineraries only if the savings justify the extra time. CTA: Search nonstop BWI to ORD October flights to compare durations and fares.
Airline Comparison for BWI to ORD — October Options and Amenities
United often operates multiple daily nonstop flights between Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) and O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with hub connections and premium cabin options; ideal for business travelers seeking flexibility. Southwest may offer competitive pricing and free checked bags, making it attractive for families and budget-conscious flyers. Compare seat selection fees, change/cancellation policies, and loyalty program benefits when booking October travel. Use airline site comparisons to confirm baggage allowances and in-flight amenities before purchase.
Seasonal Travel Tips for October — Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
Pack layers for October flights between Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) and O'Hare International Airport (ORD): mornings can be chilly while afternoons warm up. Bring a compact umbrella and consider travel insurance for unpredictable fall weather. For airport convenience, enroll in TSA PreCheck at BWI, prebook airport parking, and download your airline's app for real-time gate and delay notifications. CTA: Prepare your October trip checklist now and book BWI to ORD services ahead of travel to ensure a smooth journey.
Flight Time and Schedules — Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in October
Average nonstop flight time between Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) and O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is about 2 hours. Airlines often schedule early-morning business flights between 6:00–9:00 AM and return evening flights between 5:00–9:00 PM. In October, expect slightly fewer red-eye options but steady daytime frequencies; check carrier schedules for weekend increases tied to leisure demand. For connections, allow at least 90 minutes domestic-to-domestic to account for terminal transfers at ORD.
Find Cheap Flights from Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in October
To find cheap flights from Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in October, use flexible-date searches and fare calendars to compare midweek vs. weekend prices. Set alerts on Google Flights and Skyscanner, consider basic economy fares for single travelers, and check both direct airline sites and OTAs for promo codes. Flying on Tuesday or Wednesday often yields the lowest fares; avoid peak holiday weekends like Columbus Day when prices tend to rise. CTA: Set a fare alert now to track BWI to ORD October price drops and book when you see a dip.