Submit feedbackSubmit feedbackComplete travel information for your December journey
Travelers flying from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December should expect holiday crowds, slightly higher fares, and an increase in nonstop flight frequency on peak days. Primary keywords to keep in mind include 'IAH to LAX flights', 'Houston to Los Angeles flights', and 'cheap flights IAH LAX December'. To save time, enroll in TSA PreCheck, reserve parking in advance, and target midweek departures (Tuesday–Thursday) or early-December dates to avoid the Christmas/New Year surge. Nearby cities commonly accessed from IAH include Houston, Galveston, Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas—use multi-city or open-jaw search options if you plan onward travel. Book now to lock in the best fares for December travel and set fare alerts for price drops.
The fastest ground options from downtown Houston to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in December are rideshares (Uber, Lyft) and taxi services, typically taking 25–40 minutes depending on traffic. METRO offers limited bus service and park-and-ride options, but many travelers prefer private car or shuttle during holiday peak times. Allow extra time during December evenings and holiday weekends when traffic to IAH can increase, and consider booking airport parking or an off-site shuttle in advance.
For domestic flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December, arrive at least 90 minutes before departure if you have checked bags and 60 minutes if you are carry-on only. December brings holiday crowds and longer security lines, so consider 2 hours for peak travel days (around Christmas and New Year). Enroll in TSA PreCheck and check real-time security wait times to streamline your trip.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) offers hourly, daily, and economy parking with on-site garages near each terminal and longer-term options in the central parking area. December rates are often higher on peak days, so reserve parking early if you need covered or close-in options. Off-site lots and hotel park-and-fly deals can save money during the busy holiday period—book online to secure the best rates.
Yes, major carriers including United Airlines, American Airlines (through connections), Southwest Airlines and Alaska Airlines typically offer multiple daily nonstop flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) across December. Flight frequency increases slightly around holiday travel days; however, direct seats can fill quickly for Christmas and New Year travel—book early to secure nonstop options. Use flexible-date search or fare alerts to monitor additional nonstop availability.
For domestic travel from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), a valid government-issued photo ID is required for all adult passengers; children under 18 typically do not need ID when traveling with an adult. If traveling during December holidays with international segments or re-entry, ensure passports and visas are valid and carry any necessary documentation for connecting flights. Airlines may also require proof of vaccination or negative tests for specific international itineraries, so verify airline policies before departure.
TSA wait times at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) typically increase during December due to holiday travel, with peak congestion during early morning and late afternoon periods. Expect security lines to be longer on the days immediately before Christmas and New Year's, and plan accordingly by arriving early or using TSA PreCheck for expedited screening. Check the official airport or TSA mobile apps for live security wait estimates before you leave for the terminal.
Arrivals at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in December should expect mild coastal weather and elevated passenger volumes during holiday windows. Primary keywords include 'IAH to LAX flights', 'Los Angeles International Airport December', and 'LAX airport transfers'. To minimize wait times, pre-book ride services or airport shuttles, and consider arriving on non-peak days (early December weekdays) to avoid crowds. Nearby top destinations frequently accessed from LAX include Santa Monica, Anaheim (Disneyland), Long Beach, Burbank, and San Diego—plan connecting ground travel in advance and check for seasonal events that can affect traffic. Book transfers and check flight status now to ensure a smooth December arrival.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December usually experiences mild, cool weather with average daytime highs around 65°F (18°C) and evenings in the mid-40s to low-50s°F (7–12°C). Rain is more likely than in summer, so pack a light waterproof layer and check the forecast for storms that can cause occasional flight delays. For local travel, bring layers to transition from cooler coastal air to warmer inland destinations like Anaheim or San Diego.
From Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) you can use rideshares (Uber, Lyft), taxis, airport shuttles, and public transit (Metro and FlyAway buses) to reach downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Anaheim, and other major nearby destinations like Long Beach and Burbank. Expect higher demand for rideshares during December holiday evenings; reserve airport shuttles or pre-book private transfers if traveling with large groups. For budget-conscious travelers, the FlyAway bus to Union Station and Metro connections are reliable alternatives.
December travel between George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) coincides with many holiday events. In Houston, popular activities include the Houston Ballet's 'The Nutcracker', Zoo Lights at the Houston Zoo, and seasonal markets in downtown and the Heights. In Los Angeles, attendees can enjoy LA Zoo Lights, holiday performances at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Grove and Americana at Brand holiday light displays, and seasonal pop-up markets near Santa Monica and Anaheim (Disneyland holiday events). These events can increase flight and hotel demand; book in advance and plan ground transportation from LAX accordingly. CTA: Check event dates and book IAH to LAX flights early to secure holiday itineraries.
The best time to fly from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December is early in the month (first two weeks) or midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) to avoid holiday spikes. Avoid travel during December 20–26 and December 30–January 2 when fares and crowds are highest. For better on-time performance, choose early-morning departures; for lower fares, consider red-eye or late-night flights. Use price alerts and flexible-date searches to pinpoint optimal departure windows for December travel.
Direct nonstop flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) are generally the fastest and most convenient option, taking about 3 hours 45 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes. Connecting itineraries may be cheaper but add transfer risk—popular connection hubs for this route include Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Denver International Airport (DEN), and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). During December, weigh the lower price of a connecting flight against potential weather or delay risks; if traveling during holiday peak days, a nonstop may be worth the premium for reliability. CTA: Compare nonstop and connecting IAH to LAX flights to find the best December balance of price and convenience.
United Airlines offers many nonstop options from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), often with premium economy and lounge access for travelers with status. Southwest Airlines provides competitive fares and two free checked bags but operates variable schedules—great for budget-minded families. American Airlines and Delta provide connecting options via their hubs and may offer competitive pricing on certain dates. Alaska Airlines often competes on price and service for westbound routes to LAX. For December travel, compare seat selection fees, carry-on and checked baggage allowances, and flexible change policies—especially useful during the holiday travel period. CTA: Review carrier-specific December fares and book the best fit for your needs.
Pack layers for the IAH to LAX December trip—Houston can be cool and damp while Los Angeles is mild but rainy at times. Bring a compact umbrella and a warm layer for evenings. Allow extra time for check-in and security at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and baggage pick-up at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) during holiday weeks. Keep critical documents, medications, and chargers in your carry-on in case of checked-bag delays. Enroll in airline travel protection or buy flexible fares if traveling around December 20–26 or New Year's, and sign up for flight status alerts to stay informed about weather-related changes. CTA: Prepare your December carry-on checklist and monitor IAH to LAX flight updates before departure.
Direct flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) typically take between 3 hours 45 minutes and 4 hours 15 minutes. December schedules feature multiple daily nonstop options from major carriers, with higher frequency on peak travel days surrounding Christmas and New Year. Best departure windows are early morning (6–9 AM) and late evening (7–10 PM) for schedule variety, while midweek flights (Tuesday–Thursday) often have lower demand and sometimes cheaper fares. Keep time zone changes (Central Time to Pacific Time) in mind when planning connections. Use airline schedule search tools and sign up for flight alerts to monitor times and cancellations during December.
To find cheap flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December, start by searching flexible dates and target early-December midweek departures. Primary tactics include setting fare alerts, using flexible airports (William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)), and booking 6–10 weeks ahead of peak holiday travel. Use synonyms like 'discount IAH LAX fares' and LSI keywords such as 'nonstop deals' and 'holiday flight sales' in queries. Consider red-eye or early-morning flights, which often carry lower fares. CTA: Compare prices and book cheap IAH to LAX flights today to secure the best December rates.
Baggage claim and domestic transfer times at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) can be longer during December due to increased passenger volumes and higher checked baggage counts for holiday travel. Factor in an additional 15–30 minutes for baggage retrieval and potential congestion in terminal connectors, especially on peak days near Christmas and New Year's Eve. To speed things up, consider carry-on only travel or use priority baggage services offered by some airlines.
Busy arrival windows at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in December are typically early morning (6–9 AM) and late afternoon to evening (4–9 PM), aligning with transcontinental and redeye flight schedules. Holiday peaks occur the days before Christmas and New Year's Day, so plan airport transfers accordingly and allow extra time for ground transportation when arriving during these periods. Use live airport tracking and arrivals boards to time pickups.
If flights into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) are canceled in December, travelers can often rebook through nearby airports such as Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), Long Beach Airport (LGB), John Wayne Airport (SNA), and Ontario International Airport (ONT). Ground transportation and rental cars can bridge the gap, but winter storms or high holiday demand can limit options—book alternate flights early and contact your airline for the fastest re-accommodation. Also consider multi-airport search when booking to find cheaper or more reliable December options.
As of December, most domestic travelers arriving at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) do not face mandatory COVID-19 testing or quarantine requirements, but airlines and destinations may have specific guidance. Check the latest CDC guidance, California travel advisories, and your airline's policies before flying. For international connections or returning travelers, ensure you have any required testing or vaccination documentation to avoid delays.
