$154 Economy Roundtrip to Chicago (MEM-ORD) in Dec from Memphis

Departure-focused December content for Memphis International Airport (MEM): December brings holiday peak travel at MEM with increased flight loads to hubs like Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), Atlanta, Dallas/Fort Worth, and New York City. Expect early morning and late afternoon peaks, with Friday and Sunday surrounding Christmas and New Year's the busiest. For cheaper fares, search midweek departures and book 3–6 weeks in advance; set price alerts for MEM–ORD routes. Nearby major cities commonly accessed from MEM include Nashville, Little Rock, Jackson (MS), and Birmingham — these destinations influence connecting passenger demand. CTA: Search MEM to ORD December deals now and lock in holiday fares; check flight status before you leave for the airport.

Departing from Memphis (MEM) FAQs

December in Memphis can bring cold temperatures, occasional freezing rain, and isolated snow events that may cause short delays or ground holds at Memphis International Airport (MEM). Airlines and the airport usually post weather advisories in advance; travelers should check flight status the morning of travel and allow extra time to get to the airport during holiday periods. Pack warm layers and monitor alerts from your carrier for the most up-to-date delay information.

The busiest days at Memphis International Airport (MEM) are typically the Friday and Sunday surrounding the major holiday weekends, especially the week before Christmas and the Sunday after. To avoid crowds, consider mid-week departures or very early morning flights, arrive 90–120 minutes before domestic departures during peak holiday weeks, and use online check-in and TSA PreCheck when possible. Booking less popular flight times often yields lower fares and shorter security lines.

Airlines set baggage and holiday surcharge policies, so Memphis International Airport (MEM) does not add passenger baggage fees beyond standard airport taxes. However, in December airlines may enforce weight and carry-on limits more strictly due to full flights. Check your airline's holiday baggage policy before traveling and consider buying checked-bag fees online in advance to save money and time at the counter.

The fastest options from downtown Memphis to Memphis International Airport (MEM) in December are a taxi, rideshare (Uber/Lyft), or a shuttle; travel time is usually 15–25 minutes without heavy traffic. During peak holiday times allow at least 30–45 minutes for traffic, and consider leaving earlier to accommodate road closures or increased demand for ride services. Many hotels offer shuttle service—call ahead to confirm schedules.

Major carriers operating flights between Memphis International Airport (MEM) and Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in December typically include United Airlines and American Airlines via codeshare partners; schedules increase for holiday demand. Airlines publish seasonal frequency changes, so search for direct MEM–ORD flights on airline websites and booking engines and sign up for fare alerts to capture the best December deals. Direct routes may be limited—check connection options through hubs like Dallas or Atlanta.

Memphis International Airport (MEM) offers seasonal services such as extended customer service hours, temporary gift-wrap stations in some years, standard dining and retail with holiday hours, and rental car desks. Security and airline counters may open earlier during peak December travel to accommodate higher passenger volumes. Check the airport website for current terminal services, parking updates, and any holiday-specific assistance programs.

December arrival insights for Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD): Expect winter operations like de-icing and snow removal that can lengthen arrival times from Memphis International Airport (MEM). ORD connects easily to downtown Chicago, Milwaukee, Naperville, and the North Shore; plan extra transfer time if catching a connecting flight or ground transport. For holiday visitors, check the CTA Blue Line schedules and rideshare pickup maps, and allow additional time for luggage processing. CTA and Metra options provide alternatives to taxis when snow impacts road conditions. CTA/Metra passes and pre-booked car services can reduce wait times. CTA: Plan your ORD arrival in December—check weather, reserve ground transport, and explore downtown Chicago holiday events.

Arriving at Chicago (ORD) FAQs

Arriving at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in December means preparing for winter conditions including snow, ice, and reduced visibility that can delay arrivals and ground operations. Allow extra time for deplaning, baggage claim, and connecting transportation; ORD has multiple terminals and weather can complicate shuttle and rideshare pickups. Check Chicago Transit Authority and airport updates for the latest on ground services and winter operations.

You can take the CTA Blue Line train directly from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to downtown 24/7, with trains running often but possibly delayed by winter weather. Alternatives include rideshare services, taxis, airport shuttles, and express airport buses; travel times range from 30–60 minutes depending on traffic and snow conditions. Consider purchasing a Ventra card for CTA rides or pre-booking an airport shuttle if you have large luggage or travel during peak holiday times.

ORD occasionally implements ground stops, de-icing operations, or temporary runway restrictions when heavy snow or ice occurs in December, which can lead to delays or reroutes. Airlines coordinate closely with airport operations to de-ice aircraft and manage gate availability; passengers should expect longer taxi times and potential rebooking. Always check your airline's rebooking policy and the ORD airport status page during severe weather events.

From Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) you can reach downtown Chicago, the North Shore suburbs, Milwaukee, Naperville, and even Rockford with regional transit or rental cars; winter weather may extend travel times. ORD acts as a major hub with efficient connections to Midwestern business centers and holiday destinations like Chicago's Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, and nearby ski areas. Plan extra connection time during December to account for weather delays.

The busiest arrival days at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) are usually the days right before Christmas and New Year's Eve and the Sundays following these holidays, which often result in longer customs lines, baggage claim waits, and congested ground transportation. Transfers may require extra time, especially if connecting between international and domestic terminals; aim for at least 90–120 minutes for domestic-to-domestic connections and 2–3 hours for international transfers during peak holidays. Use airline apps for gate changes and expedited transfer information.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) hosts multiple airline and independent lounges across its terminals; many remain open with holiday hours in December but may require advance access or reservations. Seasonal services such as holiday markets or extra customer service staff are often present during December. Check lounge access policies and terminal maps before travel and consider booking lounge access if you have a long layover or expect weather-related delays.

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December Events Near MEM and ORD — Travel and Transit Considerations

December events and festivals: Memphis hosts holiday concerts, Riverfront lights, and seasonal theater productions that can increase local travel around the city; popular nearby attractions include Graceland holiday tours and downtown Christmas markets. Chicago offers iconic December events near O'Hare including Christkindlmarket downtown, Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, and the New Year's Eve celebrations that draw visitors through Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). These events can raise fares and airport crowds; book flights early and allow extra transit time from ORD to event venues. CTA: Check event dates and lock in MEM–ORD flights early for December festival travel.

Best Time to Fly MEM to ORD in December

Best times to fly: For lower fares and fewer crowds, target midweek departures (Tuesdays or Wednesdays) in early December and early morning flights (before 8 AM) to reduce the chance of weather-induced delays. Avoid peak holiday departure days—especially the final Friday before Christmas and the Sundays after major holidays—when fares spike and terminals are busiest. Book refundable or flexible fares if traveling close to holidays. CTA: Choose early-morning or midweek flights from Memphis International Airport (MEM) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) for the best December experience.

Direct vs Connecting Flights: MEM to ORD in December

Direct vs connecting: A nonstop flight from Memphis International Airport (MEM) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is fastest and reduces the chance of missed connections during December weather, but nonstops may be more expensive or less frequent around holidays. Connecting flights via hubs like Atlanta or Dallas can be cheaper and provide more scheduling flexibility, though they introduce additional risk of weather-related delays in winter. For holiday travel, prioritize nonstops if available or allow at least 90–120 minutes for tight domestic connections. CTA: Compare nonstop and one-stop options now to pick the best December itinerary from MEM to ORD.

Airline Comparison for MEM–ORD Flights in December

Airline comparison highlights: United Airlines often offers multiple connections and some direct options to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) from Memphis International Airport (MEM), with a strong hub presence at ORD for onward connections. American Airlines may provide one-stop service via its hubs like Dallas/Fort Worth, while regional and low-cost carriers can present budget options but may require connections. Evaluate baggage allowances, change fees, and on-time records—especially important in December when weather impacts operations. CTA: Compare carrier schedules and fees for your December MEM–ORD trip to choose the best balance of cost and convenience.

Seasonal Travel Tips for MEM to ORD in December

Seasonal travel tips: Pack cold-weather essentials and an extra pair of shoes in checked luggage, since December snow and slush at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) can make ground transfers messy. Check-in online, print or download boarding passes, and enroll in flight alerts to receive real-time delay notifications. At Memphis International Airport (MEM), arrive early during holiday peak days; at ORD, allow more time for de-icing and baggage claim. Consider travel insurance or flexible fares during December to protect against weather-related cancellations. CTA: Prepare your December MEM→ORD trip with these winter-ready tips and verify airline policies before you fly.

MEM to ORD Flight Times & December Schedules

Flight time and schedules: Nonstop MEM→ORD flights typically take about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours. In December airlines may add flights on high-demand days and reduce midweek frequencies; common connecting hubs include Atlanta (ATL), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), and Charlotte (CLT). Early morning departures are frequent for business connections, while mid-afternoon and evening flights absorb holiday leisure traffic. CTA: Check your carrier for updated December schedules and sign up for delay notifications ahead of travel.

How to Find Cheap MEM to ORD Flights in December

Finding cheap MEM to ORD flights in December: Book 3–6 weeks before travel for the best mix of price and availability on this corridor, though the absolute cheapest fares sometimes appear mid-week outside peak holiday windows. Use fare alerts, flexible-date searches, and consider early-morning or late-night departures for lower prices. Secondary strategies include searching nearby airports (e.g., Nashville or St. Louis) for one-way deals, bundling with hotels, and checking airline flash sales. CTA: Set fare alerts for Memphis International Airport (MEM) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) now to catch December discounts.

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Departing from Memphis (MEM) FAQs

What are the typical weather and delay conditions flying out of Memphis International Airport (MEM) in December?

What are the busiest travel days at Memphis International Airport (MEM) in December and how can I avoid crowds?

Are there any additional baggage or holiday service fees to expect at Memphis International Airport (MEM) in December?

How do I get from downtown Memphis to Memphis International Airport (MEM) during December holiday traffic?

Which airlines operate frequent Memphis International Airport (MEM) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) flights in December?

What airport services and amenities are available at Memphis International Airport (MEM) during December holiday travel?

Arriving at Chicago (ORD) FAQs

What should I expect when arriving at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) from Memphis in December?

How can I get from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to downtown Chicago during December holidays?

Are there IMMEDIATE weather-related closures or reroutes commonly affecting Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in December?

What nearby major destinations are easily reached from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) if I have a layover in December?

What are the busiest days to arrive at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in December and how might they affect transfer times?

Are airport lounges and seasonal services available at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in December?

December Events Near MEM and ORD — Travel and Transit Considerations

Best Time to Fly MEM to ORD in December

Direct vs Connecting Flights: MEM to ORD in December

Airline Comparison for MEM–ORD Flights in December

Seasonal Travel Tips for MEM to ORD in December

MEM to ORD Flight Times & December Schedules

How to Find Cheap MEM to ORD Flights in December

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