Submit feedbackSubmit feedbackComplete travel information for your December journey
December is a peak holiday travel month for the Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) to Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) corridor. Nonstop flights—typically 2 hours 40 minutes to 3 hours—run frequently on United (IAH–ORD), American (IAH–ORD/HOU–ORD schedules), and Southwest (HOU–MDW), with added connecting options via Dallas, Charlotte, and Denver. For the best December deals on round-trip and one-way fares, book 3–8 weeks ahead, fly midweek (Tuesday–Thursday), and use price alerts for flash sales. Travelers should avoid the core holiday window (December 20–27) for cheapest rates but consider last-minute mid-December bargains. Nearby major destinations reachable from Houston before departure include Galveston, Austin, San Antonio, Corpus Christi and Dallas/Fort Worth; on arrival, Chicago’s attractions and suburbs such as Evanston and Naperville are easy to access. CTA and Metra rail, rideshares, and airport shuttles provide reliable transfers at Chicago airports. CTA Blue Line serves O'Hare (ORD) and the Orange Line serves Midway (MDW), but winter delays and de-icing on arrival can add time—plan accordingly. Book cheap flights from Houston to Chicago this December using flexible date searches and consider refundable or protected fares during holiday weather windows.
Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) refers to the main commercial airports serving the Houston metro area—George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). In December, carriers operate seasonal and regular nonstop and connecting flights from both airports to Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA), so check both airports when searching for the best December fares. Nearby destinations commonly accessed from Houston include Galveston, Austin, San Antonio, Corpus Christi and Dallas/Fort Worth.
A nonstop flight from Houston to Chicago typically takes about 2 hours 40 minutes to 3 hours depending on wind and the specific airports used (IAH to ORD or HOU to MDW). December winter weather and air traffic can add variability, so plan for potential de-icing delays and always check real-time flight status before travel. For accurate arrival estimates, monitor your airline's updates and FlightAware or the carrier app the day of departure.
Yes—cheap flights are available in December, especially if you book early and travel midweek or before the December holiday peak (typically before December 20 and after Christmas travel slows). To find the lowest December rates, set price alerts, consider nearby alternate airports (Midway/ORD), and be flexible with dates and times; red-eye and early morning flights often offer the best deals. Use fare-comparison tools and sign up for airline newsletters to capture flash sales.
While Houston itself has mild winters, traveling to Chicago in December introduces cold-weather risks like snow, de-icing delays, and rebooking needs due to cancellations. Pack layered clothing, allow extra connection time, and consider travel insurance or refundable fares during peak holiday windows. Also account for holiday traffic to and from airports (IAH and HOU), and factor time for parking or ride-share pickup during busy December evenings.
Major carriers like United, American, and Southwest typically operate year-round nonstop service between Houston’s hubs and Chicago’s O'Hare and Midway airports, while additional seasonal or charter frequencies may be added for the December holiday period. Availability varies by year, so check airline schedules and book soon for holiday travel to secure nonstop seats. Using loyalty program awards or flexible miles can help during busy December travel windows.
From George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) and William P. Hobby (HOU), travelers can use rideshares, airport shuttles, taxis, rental cars, and limited public transit; December demand can lengthen waits for rideshares, so pre-book airport shuttles or off-site parking for holidays. If you plan to drive to outlying areas like Galveston or Austin before flying, reserve parking in advance and check real-time road conditions for winter events. For quick transfers to hotels, consider hotel shuttle services and major ride-hailing apps.
Arriving at Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) in December means facing winter temperatures, possible snow, and high tourist demand for holiday markets and events. Prioritize morning or early-afternoon arrivals to reduce risk of weather-related cancellations and to take advantage of public transit (Blue Line from ORD, Orange Line from MDW). For access to suburban destinations like Evanston and Naperville, use Metra commuter rail lines from downtown or regional rideshare/park-and-ride options. To avoid holiday surcharges and long waits, pre-book airport transfers and confirm hotel arrangements. Book your December flights to Chicago early and monitor weather advisories to ensure a smooth arrival.
Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) typically includes O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). Both airports receive flights from Houston (All Airports) (HOUA), with O'Hare handling more long-haul and hub connections while Midway serves many domestic low-cost and point-to-point routes. Nearby major cities and destinations commonly accessed from Chicago include Evanston, Naperville, Rockford, Gary (IN), Milwaukee, and central Illinois cities such as Springfield.
December in Chicago often brings cold temperatures, snow, and icy conditions that can cause de-icing delays or cancellations; plan extra time for connections and ground transfers. Airlines and airports typically publish winter contingency plans—check airline notifications and airport advisories before departure from Houston. Consider booking earlier flights and allow at least one extra hour for transfers during periods of active winter weather.
December events in Chicago attract many visitors from Houston and beyond. Popular draws include Christkindlmarket (a traditional German-style holiday market), Lincoln Park ZooLights, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, seasonal theatre and ballet performances (including The Nutcracker), and holiday pop-up experiences along Navy Pier. These events increase demand for flights and hotels—book early to avoid sold-out itineraries during the festive season. Nearby suburbs like Naperville and Evanston also host holiday markets that can be combined into your Chicago visit.
The best time to fly from Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) to Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) in December is mid-December (roughly Dec 10–17) and mid-week (Tue–Thu) when fares and crowds are lower. Avoid the peak holiday window (about Dec 20–27) when prices spike and weather cancellations are more likely. Early-morning flights reduce the risk of delays cascading throughout the day. If you need to travel around the holidays, consider booking refundable fares or flexible tickets and enroll in airline notifications to receive real-time updates.
Nonstop flights between Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) and Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) are ideal for December travel to minimize delay exposure—typical nonstop time is about 2h40m–3h. Connecting flights can be significantly cheaper, especially during holiday sales, but increase your risk of missed connections during winter storms. If you prioritize cost and can allow extra layover time, a one-stop itinerary through carriers’ regional hubs (Dallas, Charlotte, Denver) is a good option. For holiday travel, prioritize nonstop where possible or build in a buffer day to your trip if using connections.
United: Strong hub connectivity at IAH–ORD with multiple daily nonstop flights, competitive premium options, and robust rebooking policies for elite members—good for travelers prioritizing schedule reliability in December. American: Offers several daily options via IAH with comprehensive network connections and status benefits; often competitive on price for December travel. Southwest: Excellent low-cost carrier presence from HOU to MDW with generous two-free-checked-bags policy and flexible change-fee-free bookings—an attractive option for budget-conscious December travelers. Budget carriers (Spirit) may offer lower base fares but add fees for bags and seat selection; factor total cost when comparing. CTA: Compare total trip cost (fares + baggage fees) and book the carrier that best matches your December travel preferences.
Pack layers, a warm coat, insulated boots, gloves, and a hat when flying from Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) to Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) in December; temperatures drop significantly on arrival and sidewalks can be icy. Allow extra connection time for de-icing and potential weather delays, and consider flight insurance or refundable fares if traveling during peak holiday windows. Arrive early at Houston airports to navigate holiday traffic and TSA lines, and use airline mobile apps for instant rebooking or gate notifications. CTA: Prepare now—check weather forecasts and airline alerts before flying to Chicago this December, and secure flexible or protected fares for peace of mind.
Nonstop flights between Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) and Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) typically last 2 hours 40 minutes to 3 hours. Popular nonstops include IAH–ORD (United) and HOU–MDW (Southwest); frequency increases during December holiday demand with additional connecting options through Dallas, Charlotte, or Denver. Connecting itineraries range from 4 to 8+ hours total, depending on layover length. For December travel, choose morning departures where possible to reduce likelihood of weather-related cascading delays. CTA: Check real-time schedules and sign up for airline notifications to stay updated on any December schedule changes.
To secure cheap December flights from Houston (All Airports) (HOUA) to Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA), follow these proven steps: book 3–8 weeks in advance, travel on Tuesdays or Wednesdays when fares are typically lower, and search alternate nearby airports (IAH, HOU to ORD, MDW). Use price alerts and flexible-date calendars to spot short flash sales—Southwest and Spirit occasionally offer discounted December fares for travelers flexible on times. If you must travel during the Christmas peak, consider one-connection itineraries or late-night red-eyes for better prices. CTA: Start a price alert for HOUA→CHIA December routes and compare nonstop vs. connecting fares for best savings.
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From O'Hare (ORD), the CTA Blue Line offers a cost-effective, direct route to downtown Chicago; taxis, rideshares, and airport shuttles are reliable alternatives but can be slower during snow or holiday congestion. From Midway (MDW), the CTA Orange Line connects to the Loop, and express shuttle or rideshare may be quicker with luggage. In December, expect higher demand for rideshares—book in advance where possible and consider premium airport shuttle services during holidays.
Chicago in December offers holiday favorites like the Christkindlmarket, ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, and seasonal theatre performances like The Nutcracker. Sports fans can attend Bulls or Blackhawks games depending on schedules; New Year’s events are concentrated along the Riverwalk and Navy Pier. These events drive increased lodging and flight demand, so book your December Chicago hotels and flights early.
Yes—Chicago’s December weather is much colder than Houston, so pack winter coats, boots, and cold-weather accessories; airlines generally allow one carry-on and one personal item but check checked baggage fees. If you’re bringing bulky winter gear, verify airline size/weight limits and consider ship-to-hotel options for large items. Also allow extra time at baggage claim when flights are busy during the holidays.
