$54 Economy Roundtrip to Houston (CHIA-HOUA) in Dec from Chicago

December travel from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) to Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) sees a mix of holiday leisure and business demand. Expect higher fares around mid-to-late December holidays, increased flight frequency on popular nonstop routes from ORD and MDW, and frequent weather-related schedule adjustments. Nearby major cities often accessed include Milwaukee, Rockford, Gary (IN), Naperville, and Aurora — useful for multi-city ground connections.

Departing from Chicago (Any) FAQs

Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) commonly refers to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW), and occasionally nearby regional fields used by low-cost or charter services. When searching for flights to Houston (All Airports) (HOUA), include both ORD and MDW to compare nonstop and connecting options and capture cheapest fares.

December in Chicago often brings snow, freezing rain, and gusty winds that can delay de-icing and push back departure times; allow at least 2–3 extra hours for winter-day travel. Check airport delay boards, sign up for airline notifications, and consider earlier flights to reduce the chance of missed connections during holiday periods.

Options include CTA Blue Line to O'Hare, Orange Line to Midway, rideshare, airport express buses, and long-term parking; snow and holiday traffic can add time, so plan transit with buffer. For cheaper parking or guaranteed drop-offs, reserve off-site parking in advance or take public transit during peak holiday weekends.

Yes—major carriers like United, American, Southwest, and Delta typically add or maintain multiple daily nonstop flights between ORD/MDW and Houston's airports during December, though holiday peak days may sell out early. Book early and monitor schedules; mid-week and early-December dates often have more available nonstops and lower fares.

Search flexible-date calendars, set fare alerts, compare ORD and MDW departures, and consider traveling early December or mid-week (Tues/Wed) to get lower rates. Use multi-airport search terms (e.g., CHIA to HOUA) and book 21–60 days in advance or watch last-minute deals for off-peak December dates.

As of December travel guidance, most domestic U.S. flights do not require proof of vaccination or negative tests, but airlines and Texas local venues may update policies; verify with your airline and the Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) destination before departure. Always carry a photo ID, check mask policies if applicable, and monitor official airline updates in case of rapidly changing health guidance.

Arrivals to Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) in December benefit from milder weather and a busy events calendar. Travelers from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) should plan for holiday crowds around Zoo Lights and seasonal performances, and anticipate higher ride-share demand on event nights. Nearby major cities and destinations commonly accessed include Galveston, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Conroe, Austin, and San Antonio for short drives or onward regional flights.

Arriving at Houston (Any) FAQs

Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) includes George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), plus nearby regional options used for connections to Galveston and Conroe. When booking from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA), check which Houston airport your flight lands at to plan ground transport to destinations like Galveston, Sugar Land, and The Woodlands.

Options include METRO buses and light rail (where available), airport shuttle services, taxis, rideshare pickup zones, and rental cars; holiday traffic can increase journey times, especially to popular spots like the Galleria or Galveston. Pre-book airport shuttles or car rentals, or use official rideshare areas to avoid fines and to streamline holiday arrival.

Yes—December features seasonal attractions such as Zoo Lights, the Houston Ballet’s Nutcracker performances, and holiday markets in Sugar Land and Galveston which can raise hotel demand and local taxi/rideshare prices. If arriving for December events, reserve transfers and hotels early and allow extra time for last-mile travel from HOUA to event venues.

For domestic flights from CHIA, baggage claim is straightforward at HOUA with standard carry-on and checked baggage rules set by your airline; be sure to follow the airline’s limits to avoid oversized fees. If connecting to international services from Houston, allow extra time for check-in and security, and verify carry-on restrictions before departure.

Houston in December is typically mild and cool compared with Chicago, with daytime highs often in the 50s–60s°F (10–20°C) and occasional rain; pack a light jacket and umbrella. This milder climate reduces the likelihood of weather cancellations common in Chicago, but check local forecasts for rain or unusually cold snaps that can affect ground transport.

Both IAH and HOU have multiple airline lounges, pay-per-use lounges, and business facilities suitable for holiday travelers needing workspace or rest before onward connections. Book lounge access early when traveling during December’s busy holiday peaks to secure seating and amenities.

1.0.2510.19

December Events & Festivals — Chicago (CHIA) and Houston (HOUA) Highlights

December brings vibrant holiday programming to both endpoints of the CHIA → HOUA route. In Chicago, popular events include Christkindlmarket, Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, and Lincoln Park ZooLights which drive local travel demand. In Houston and surrounding areas, visitors can enjoy Zoo Lights, the Houston Ballet’s Nutcracker performances, and seasonal celebrations in Galveston like Dickens on The Strand. These events increase hotel and rideshare demand—book tickets and transfers early.

Best Time to Fly CHIA to HOUA in December — Cheapest & Most Reliable Dates

For the best mix of price and reliability in December, plan travel in early-to-mid December or during weekdays (Tuesday–Wednesday) and avoid Dec 20–27 unless your travel is fixed. Early-morning departures are less likely to be delayed by snow-related ripple effects. If you must travel on peak holiday dates, choose refundable or flexible fares and arrive at the airport earlier than usual.

Direct vs Connecting Flights — CHIA to HOUA in December

Nonstop flights between Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) and Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) save time and reduce the risk of missed connections—key in December when weather can create cascading delays. Connecting flights may be cheaper or necessary on certain dates and provide alternate routing if nonstops sell out. For holiday travel, prefer nonstop service when possible; if you take a connecting flight, leave generous layover time to buffer against winter delays.

Airline Comparison for CHIA to HOUA in December — United, American, Southwest & Delta

United, American, Southwest, and Delta each operate multiple daily flights between Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) and Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) in December. United and American typically run more service from ORD to IAH/DFW hubs, Southwest focuses on MDW–HOU/IAH leisure routes with competitive fares and flexible policies, while Delta offers strong connectivity via ATL. Compare fares, baggage allowances, and loyalty benefits; for holiday travel prioritize seat availability and change flexibility.

Seasonal Travel Tips for CHIA → HOUA in December — Weather, Packing & Delays

Prepare for December travel by packing layers for Chicago’s cold and light outerwear for Houston’s milder climate. Carry essential medications and a charged phone battery pack, and keep copies of confirmations offline in case of spotty service. For winter weather at CHIA, check for de-icing procedures and airport delay alerts, and for HOUA plan transfers in advance due to event-related pickup congestion.

Flight Time & Schedules for CHIA to HOUA in December

Nonstop flight time between Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) and Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) typically ranges from 2 hours 40 minutes to 3 hours. Expect multiple daily departures—morning and evening peaks—and frequent weekend service spikes in December. Early-morning flights often have the best on-time performance during winter months. CTA: Check airline schedule grids for real-time December frequencies and book an early flight to minimize weather disruption.

Find Cheap Flights CHIA to HOUA in December — Tips & Strategies

To secure cheap flights from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) to Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) in December, search with flexible dates, compare ORD vs MDW departures and IAH vs HOU arrivals, and set price alerts. Target early-December travel or the post-Christmas window for the lowest fares and use airline newsletters and flash sale trackers for last-minute discounts. Consider low-cost carriers and basic economy fares but weigh baggage and change-fee policies. CTA: Compare multi-airport options and set fare alerts now to lock in the best December deals.

Tips

Use multi-airport search queries to compare CHIA and HOUA prices.
Fly mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) or early morning for lower rates.
Book 21–60 days ahead for non-holiday December travel; earlier for peak holiday dates.
Bundle flights with car rentals or hotels for holiday package discounts.

Wed, Dec 31

Roundtrip

Thu, Jan 8

Mon, Dec 15

Roundtrip

Tue, Dec 23

Other Options for This Route

Other Destinations

Flights from Other Cities

✈️ Flight Guide: Chicago (Any) → Houston (Any)

Complete travel information for your December journey

Departing from Chicago (Any) FAQs

Which airports are included under Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) for flights to Houston (All Airports) (HOUA)?

How does December weather affect departures from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA)?

What are the best ways to get to Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) in December?

Are there more nonstop flights from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) to Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) in December?

How can I find the cheapest flights from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) to Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) in December?

What COVID, vaccine or health entry requirements should I check before departing CHIA in December?

Arriving at Houston (Any) FAQs

Which airports are covered by Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) for arrivals from CHIA?

What ground transportation options are available from Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) in December?

Are there December-specific events in Houston that affect airport arrivals and hotels?

What are baggage and customs considerations when arriving at Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA)?

What should travelers expect for weather in Houston in December upon arrival from CHIA?

Are there airport lounges or business services at Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) suitable for December travelers?