November brings major seasonal events that influence travel between Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) and Seattle (All Airports) (SEAA). Chicago’s Magnificent Mile Lights Festival typically occurs in late November and can increase downtown hotel demand and airport traffic. Seattle’s Winterfest events and holiday markets often begin in mid-to-late November, offering cozy indoor activities and attracting visitors from the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Plan ahead for higher hotel rates and limited availability during the Thanksgiving weekend and popular festival weekends.
For November travel from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) to Seattle (All Airports) (SEAA), the best times to fly for savings and fewer delays are early- to mid-November on Tuesday–Thursday departures, and early-morning flights. Avoid flying on or immediately around Thanksgiving Day and the following Sunday if you want lower fares and more predictable schedules. If your dates are flexible, book mid-week outbound and return flights to reduce cost and airport congestion.
Nonstop flights from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) to Seattle (All Airports) (SEAA) save time (about 4 hours flight time) and reduce the risk of misconnects, but they can cost $30–$80 more than one-stop options. Connecting flights through hubs like Denver (DEN), Minneapolis (MSP), Salt Lake City (SLC), Phoenix (PHX), or Dallas (DFW) can lower fares but add 1–3 hours of total travel time. In November, when weather can be variable, nonstops are preferable for schedule reliability; however, if you have flexible timing and want to save, choose a reputable carrier with adequate connection windows.
Alaska Airlines: Strong Pacific Northwest network with frequent nonstop flights from O'Hare to Seattle (All Airports) (SEAA); good loyalty benefits and often competitive fares. Delta Air Lines: Reliable service with both nonstop and one-stop options via Minneapolis; good connectivity and premium cabin options. United Airlines: Multiple daily nonstops from ORD to SEA with broad alliance connections; United often competes on price and schedule. American Airlines: Offers one-stop options and occasional nonstops depending on season; consider if you prefer American miles. Southwest: Typically operates from Midway with competitive connecting itineraries and free checked bags, making it attractive for budget-conscious travelers.
Pack smart for November travel: waterproof jackets, layered clothing, quick-dry fabrics, and comfortable shoes for rainy sidewalks in Seattle. Allow 90–120 minutes for domestic airport check-in at Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) during peak holiday days, and consider early-morning departures to minimize delay risk. Monitor weather forecasts closely and have flexible cancellation or rebooking options when possible. Use transit passes (ORCA in Seattle, CTA in Chicago) to save time and money and reduce reliance on road transport during inclement weather.
Nonstop flights from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) to Seattle (All Airports) (SEAA) typically take about 4 hours. Expect an approximate 2-hour time difference (Chicago is usually 2 hours ahead of Seattle), so a noon departure from Chicago arrives mid-afternoon local Seattle time. In November, daylight saving time shifts (if within the same year) are usually already in effect or recently ended; always verify local times during booking. Schedules are denser in the morning and early evening; choosing early-morning flights can reduce the chance of weather-related delays.
To find cheap flights from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) to Seattle (All Airports) (SEAA) in November, search across O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) and be flexible with departure days — Tuesday through Thursday often shows the lowest fares. Use fare alerts, clear cookies or use private browsing for comparative price checks, and consider one-stop itineraries through Denver (DEN), Minneapolis (MSP), or Salt Lake City (SLC) to reduce costs. Low-cost carriers sometimes offer competitive connecting itineraries via Midway; however, weigh baggage and seat selection fees against savings. Book during early to mid-October or monitor early-November flash sales for the best value.