✈️ Flight Guide: Chicago (MDW) → Phoenix (PHX)

December brings festive events in both Chicago and Phoenix that can influence travel timing. In Chicago, holiday markets (e.g., Christkindlmarket), seasonal theater, and fitness races drive local travel around the city near MDW. In Phoenix and nearby Scottsdale, popular attractions include ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo and Las Noches de las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden; these events can increase weekend traffic and local hotel demand in December.

For the best combination of price and convenience flying MDW to PHX in December, schedule travel in early December or mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) to avoid peak holiday crowds. Avoid the window from about Dec 20–27 when demand spikes, and consider returning after New Year’s Day for lower fares. Booking 3–8 weeks ahead is often optimal for December; last-minute bargains can appear but are less reliable during the holidays.

Choosing nonstop (direct) flights between Chicago Midway (MDW) and Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) saves travel time — typically 3.5–4 hours — and reduces missed-connection risk during December weather disruptions. Connecting itineraries can be cheaper but add layover time and increase exposure to delays, especially if the connection is through a weather-prone hub. If flexibility and cost-savings are priorities, a single connecting stop with a longer layover can be worthwhile; if reliability and speed matter most, book nonstop service.

Southwest Airlines often dominates nonstop MDW–PHX service with multiple daily flights and a customer-friendly two free checked bag policy, making it attractive for families traveling in December. Other major carriers (American, United) may offer connecting routes via hubs such as DFW, DEN, or ORD — these can offer competitive fares and loyalty perks but may include checked bag fees and require careful connection timing in winter. Compare total travel cost (fares + baggage + seat selections) when choosing your carrier for December travel.

Prepare for winter travel at Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) in December by packing layered clothing, warm footwear, and carry-on essentials in case of delays. Expect mild, sunny weather on arrival at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), but bring a light jacket for evenings. Strategies to mitigate December disruptions include choosing earlier flights, booking nonstops when possible, selecting refundable or flexible fares, and enabling mobile airline alerts. Also consider travel insurance for holiday trips and verify TSA PreCheck or Clear status for faster screening.

Typical nonstop flight time from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is approximately 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on winds and routing. In December, Phoenix generally observes Mountain Standard Time (MST) and Chicago is on Central Standard Time (CST), so Phoenix is typically one hour behind Chicago; factor this into arrival time planning. Southwest Airlines commonly offers multiple daily nonstop flights; other carriers may offer connecting service through hubs such as Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Denver (DEN), or Chicago O'Hare (ORD). Check morning departures for the most reliable on-time performance during winter weather.

To score cheap MDW to PHX flights in December, target early- to mid-December travel dates and mid-week departures (Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be cheaper), and avoid the heavy holiday window from Dec 23–27. Use fare comparison tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner, set price alerts, and consider flexible dates or nearby airports (e.g., ORD for more carrier choice). Nonstop flights are convenient but sometimes more expensive — balance cost versus convenience and check Southwest for strong nonstop MDW–PHX offerings. Book 3–8 weeks ahead for the best balance of price and availability, and look for last-minute deals if your dates are flexible.

Tips

• Set price alerts 6–8 weeks before departure and monitor nightly for dips.
• Search for mid-week MDW departures to PHX to find lower fares.
• Consider early morning or late evening flights for better deals.
• Use airline rewards and credit card points to offset holiday premiums.