Economy Roundtrip to Fort Lauderdale (MDW-FLL) in Dec from Chicago

December is a high-demand month for flights departing Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) because travelers trade Chicago winter for South Florida warmth. Expect increased fares around holiday weekends and potential weather-related disruptions like snow or de-icing delays. To save on December travel, book early, be flexible with midweek departure dates, and use price alerts for MDW to FLL routes. For convenience, reserve on-airport parking or an off-site lot near Oak Lawn and arrive an extra 30–60 minutes earlier than usual to navigate winter check-in and security. If you’re driving from nearby cities like Milwaukee or Indianapolis, factor in interstate traffic and winter maintenance. Ready to find cheap flights from Chicago Midway to Fort Lauderdale this December? Compare carriers, book early, and check live MDW updates before you go.

Departing from Chicago (MDW) FAQs

In December, nonstop options between Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) are commonly offered by Spirit Airlines and Southwest Airlines, with seasonal increases to meet holiday demand. Direct flight availability can vary by date, so check carrier schedules and book early for the best nonstop fares and seat selection.

A nonstop flight from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) typically takes about 3 hours and 10 minutes to 3 hours and 30 minutes. Flight time can vary with wind, routing, and airline operational factors, so allow extra time for boarding and potential winter de-icing delays in December.

Yes, December—especially the weeks around Christmas and New Year’s—usually sees higher fares for MDW to FLL due to holiday demand and limited nonstop capacity. To find cheap flights, compare flexible dates, sign up for fare alerts, and book several weeks in advance; traveling midweek or outside peak holiday windows can lower costs.

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) offers taxis, rideshares (Uber/Lyft), shuttle services, and public transit via the CTA Orange Line year-round. In December expect higher demand and possible winter road conditions; pre-book rideshares or airport parking and allow extra time for snow clearance and traffic near downtown Chicago and nearby suburbs like Oak Lawn or Cicero.

Follow each airline's checked bag and carry-on rules—budget airlines often charge for checked luggage and select seats; most travelers bring a warm coat in carry-on and compress summer clothing for Fort Lauderdale. December holiday travel increases the chance of full flights and gate-checked bags, so arrive early, label luggage clearly, and consider TSA PreCheck to speed security.

Passengers often use Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to access downtown Chicago, the Near South Side, and suburban areas such as Oak Lawn and Cicero; travelers also connect to nearby major cities like Milwaukee, Indianapolis, and Detroit via short flights or ground transport. In December many visitors combine a Fort Lauderdale beach trip with stops in Miami or West Palm Beach, so check multi-city itineraries when booking.

December arrivals at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) generally enjoy pleasant weather and a bustling airport environment as snowbirds and holiday visitors arrive from northern cities like Chicago. Ground transport options are plentiful: rental cars, rideshares, shuttles, and the Tri-Rail connector service make it easy to reach Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Boca Raton, or West Palm Beach. During Christmas and New Year’s weeks expect heavier traffic and limited rental car inventory, so book transfers or rental cars in advance and confirm pickup locations. For family or beach vacations, pack sunscreen and light layers and plan for quick airport-to-hotel transfers to maximize daylight hours. Looking for cheap flights arriving at Fort Lauderdale this December? Compare MDW departure dates, consider midweek arrivals, and subscribe to fare alerts to secure the best deals.

Arriving at Fort Lauderdale (FLL) FAQs

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) experiences warm, busy conditions in December as many visitors escape colder northern climates. Expect heightened passenger volumes during holiday weeks, efficient customs/immigration for domestic travelers, and plentiful ground transport options to nearby destinations such as Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Palm Beach, and Boca Raton.

Travel time from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) to Miami typically ranges from 30 minutes to 1 hour by car depending on traffic; during December holiday peaks expect closer to an hour. Train and shuttle services are available but can take longer, so schedule extra time if connecting to events in Miami or Miami Beach.

Yes, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) provides shuttle services, Tri-Rail connections via free shuttle, and public bus options year-round; December schedules may run on holiday timetables for certain services. Pre-booked shuttles, rideshares, and rental cars remain reliable choices during the December travel season.

Travelers use Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) to access Fort Lauderdale beaches, Hollywood, Miami and Miami Beach, Boca Raton, and West Palm Beach—making FLL a hub for South Florida tourism and nearby business centers. In December, visitors often combine beach vacations with holiday events in Miami and Palm Beach, so consider multi-city itineraries.

To secure cheap flights into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) in December, use fare comparison tools, be flexible on travel dates, and consider early December or midweek arrivals to avoid holiday spikes. Sign up for airline newsletters, monitor last-minute deals from carriers that fly MDW to FLL, and consider connecting flights for additional savings.

December in Fort Lauderdale features mild to warm temperatures, low humidity, and generally sunny skies—perfect for beach activities after a flight from colder regions. Rain is less frequent than summer months, but pack a light jacket for cooler evenings and check local forecasts for any seasonal events that might impact travel.

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December Events & Festivals Near Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and Chicago Midway (MDW)

December brings popular events that affect travel on the MDW–FLL route: Fort Lauderdale’s Annual Holiday Boat Parade and various holiday beach events draw visitors to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), while Miami hosts seasonal concerts and New Year’s celebrations. In Chicago, the Christkindlmarket and holiday performances increase outbound passenger volume from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW). If you plan to attend a festival, book flights and ground transport early and anticipate higher local hotel rates. For beachgoers, consider arriving earlier in December to avoid crowds during major holiday weekends.

Best Time to Fly MDW to FLL — December Travel Advice

For December MDW to FLL trips, the best time to fly for value is early December or midweek departures (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) when holiday demand is lower and fares are typically cheaper. If you want fewer weather-related delays, early morning flights from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) are preferable before potential winter storms develop later in the day. Avoid traveling on peak holiday dates such as the few days before Christmas and the immediate days after New Year’s Eve when prices and crowds spike. Book at least 3–6 weeks in advance for holiday weeks to secure better fares and seat availability.

Direct vs Connecting Flights — MDW to FLL in December

Nonstop flights from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) offer the fastest and most convenient option—generally 3–3.5 hours airborne—ideal during December when time and connections are precious. Connecting flights can be cheaper but introduce risk of missed connections if winter weather delays MDW departures; they also lengthen total travel time. If you prioritize lowest price and have flexible time, consider a one-stop itinerary. If reliability and speed are priorities—especially during holiday travel—book a nonstop flight and allow extra buffer days for schedule changes.

Airline Comparison for MDW to FLL — December Carriers, Fees, and Amenities

Southwest Airlines often provides multiple daily nonstop flights from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) with two free checked bags and flexible rebooking—appealing for December holiday travelers. Spirit Airlines typically offers lower base fares but charges for carry-ons and checked luggage, which can increase the total price for families. American Airlines and other legacy carriers might offer one-stop options from MDW or nearby ORD with loyalty benefits. When comparing airlines for December travel, include baggage fees, seat selection costs, and on-time performance; for reliability in winter, Southwest’s multiple daily nonstops and customer-friendly policies often win for MDW departures.

Seasonal Travel Tips for MDW to FLL in December — Weather, Packing, and Holiday Prep

Prepare for December travel from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) by packing both winter and warm-weather essentials—layered clothing for Chicago’s cold and light beach outfits for FLL. Check weather forecasts for Chicago before departure and build buffer time for de-icing or snow delays; sign up for airline notifications. Bring a portable charger, travel-size sunscreen, and be aware of holiday crowds; arrive early for security lines and confirm rideshare pickup points at both airports. Consider TSA PreCheck or Clear to speed security during busy December days. Book rental cars and airport parking in advance if traveling over Christmas or New Year’s, as inventory can be limited.

Flight Time and Schedules for Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) in December

Nonstop flights from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) typically range from 3 hours, 10 minutes to about 3 hours, 30 minutes. December schedules add extra frequencies on peak travel days—particularly Fridays and Sundays around holiday weeks—so expect higher seat demand. Early morning departures reduce the risk of late-day snow-related delays in Chicago, while late-morning or afternoon flights offer a convenient arrival into South Florida for same-day beach time. For connections, allow at least 90–120 minutes in case of winter delays at MDW when flying through northern hubs.

How to Find Cheap Flights from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) in December

To find cheap flights from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) in December, start by searching flexible-date calendars and setting multiple fare alerts. Consider early December or travel midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) to avoid high holiday premium pricing. Compare nonstop options from Southwest and Spirit with one-stop itineraries; connecting flights can sometimes be cheaper but add travel time. Use airport alternatives only if they save substantial money—Chicago O’Hare International (ORD) may offer more nonstop choices but factor in transit time from downtown Chicago. Book baggage and seat options in advance to avoid surprise fees and confirm cancellation policies if holiday plans change. Ready to save? Start a fare alert for MDW to FLL now and monitor price drops.

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✈️ Flight Guide: Chicago (MDW) → Fort Lauderdale (FLL)

Complete travel information for your December journey

Departing from Chicago (MDW) FAQs

What airlines fly nonstop from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) in December?

How long is the flight time from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)?

Are December flights from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) more expensive due to holiday travel?

What ground transportation options are available at Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) during December?

How should I prepare luggage and baggage for MDW to FLL flights in December?

Are there commonly used nearby destinations when flying out of Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) in December?

Arriving at Fort Lauderdale (FLL) FAQs

What should I know about arriving at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) in December?

How long does it take to get from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) to Miami in December?

Are there direct shuttles and public transit options at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) in December?

What are common nearby destinations travelers access from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)?

How can I find cheap flights arriving at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) in December?

What are typical weather conditions at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) in December?