Submit feedbackSubmit feedbackComplete travel information for your November journey
In November, the most reliable ways to reach Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) are the CTA Blue Line train, express airport shuttles, rideshares, and driving with airport parking. The Blue Line runs 24/7 and avoids surface traffic delays common during holiday weekends, while off-peak shuttle deals and advance parking reservations can save money. Plan extra time for slower traffic near downtown Chicago, especially around Thanksgiving weekend.
For international departures to London Gatwick Airport (LGW), arrive at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) at least 3 hours before scheduled departure to allow for check-in, TSA security, and any airline-specific document checks. November can bring busy holiday spikes (mid-November sales and Thanksgiving), so add an extra 30–60 minutes on peak travel days and follow airline alerts for queue times.
Direct nonstop service from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to London Gatwick Airport (LGW) is limited or seasonal; many travelers route to London via Heathrow (LHR) or connect through European hubs like Dublin (DUB) or Amsterdam (AMS). For November travel, check airlines and seasonal schedules early and consider one-stop options via major European carriers for the best fares.
November in Chicago can be cold and windy; pack warm layers, a heavy coat, and weatherproof shoes in checked luggage while carrying essential layers in your personal item to manage airport temperature changes. Airlines enforce weight and size rules more strictly during busy months—check your carrier's allowance in advance, and consider shipping extra winter gear to avoid overweight fees.
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) increases staffing, opens additional security lanes, and extends check-in counters during peak holiday periods like mid-November sales and Thanksgiving travel. Still, expect longer lines, and monitor airline notifications for gate changes and delays; using mobile boarding passes and checking real-time airport maps helps navigate crowded terminals.
Passengers flying from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to London Gatwick Airport (LGW) often connect from nearby major U.S. destinations such as Milwaukee, Indianapolis, Detroit, and Minneapolis. These cities provide alternative flight options and connecting itineraries if you’re seeking better prices or different departure times in November.
On arrival at London Gatwick Airport (LGW), expect UK Border Force passport control checks; processing times can vary in November due to increased holiday travel and seasonal events. Have your passport, any required visas or Electronic Travel Authorisation (if applicable), and address details ready; use eGates if eligible to speed up entry.
The Gatwick Express offers a direct 30-minute service to London Victoria, while Thameslink trains provide links to St Pancras and London Bridge; buses and pre-booked taxis are alternatives. In November, check for rail engineering works and book train tickets in advance for the best prices and guaranteed seats.
November in London tends to be cool, damp, and often overcast with temperatures typically between 6–12°C (43–54°F). Bring layered clothing, a waterproof coat, comfortable shoes for walking, and an umbrella; packing adapters and a light scarf will help handle chilly mornings and evenings.
Most ORD to LGW itineraries in November will include at least one connection, often via European hubs or a London Heathrow (LHR) transfer. Direct, nonstop services to Gatwick from Chicago are rare; check route options early and factor in transfer time if routing via LHR or other UK airports.
November brings several events that influence travel patterns on the ORD to LGW route. In London, Bonfire Night (Guy Fawkes, Nov 5), Remembrance Day (Nov 11) observances, the London Jazz Festival, and early Christmas light switch-ons attract visitors. Chicago has fall festivals, business conferences, and the Thanksgiving travel surge that increase outbound demand from ORD. These events can drive price spikes, busier security lines, and fuller trains at Gatwick. Plan ahead for event dates and consider traveling on off-peak weekdays to avoid crowds.
The best time to fly from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to London Gatwick Airport (LGW) in November is typically mid-month on weekdays (Tuesday through Thursday) when demand and fares tend to be lower. Early November before major U.S. holiday travel surges (prior to the Thanksgiving period) often offers cheaper seat availability, while late November (the week of Thanksgiving and lead-up to Black Friday) sees higher prices and busier airports. For the least disruption and better prices, book 6–8 weeks ahead and consider red-eye flights that arrive in London in the morning.
Choosing between direct and connecting flights on the ORD to LGW route in November comes down to trade-offs: direct nonstop (rare) minimizes travel time and connection risk, while connecting flights usually offer lower fares and greater schedule flexibility. November often sees limited nonstop options to Gatwick, so many travelers accept one-stop itineraries via hubs like Dublin, Amsterdam, or Heathrow to access better prices or preferred departure times. If you have tight schedules or limited time, prioritize itineraries with a single, reasonably-timed connection and protections for missed connections.
While few carriers operate nonstop ORD to LGW services, most travelers use a mix of U.S. carriers + European partners or European carriers with a U.S. connection to reach Gatwick in November. Consider airlines with strong transatlantic networks and partnered connections: American Airlines & British Airways (via LHR commonly), United Airlines (via hubs), Aer Lingus (via Dublin), KLM (via Amsterdam), and major Gulf/European carriers offering single-stop itineraries. Evaluate factors such as baggage through-check, total travel time, alliance benefits, and onboard comfort when choosing between carriers and codeshare flights.
Traveling in November between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and London Gatwick Airport (LGW) requires prepping for cooler weather, possible delays, and holiday crowds. Pack layered clothing and waterproof outerwear, keep essential items in your carry-on, and bring chargers and a UK power adapter. Allow extra time for check-in and security at ORD during Thanksgiving windows and verify train schedules from Gatwick because rail engineering works are more common in autumn.
Typical door-to-door travel time from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to London Gatwick Airport (LGW) in November ranges from about 9 to 14+ hours depending on connections. Pure airborne time for a direct transatlantic route (if available) is approximately 7.5–8.5 hours; however, most itineraries to LGW involve at least one stop — common connection hubs include London Heathrow (LHR), Dublin (DUB), Amsterdam (AMS), Reykjavik (KEF), and Paris (CDG). Overnight red-eye departures from ORD typically arrive in London the following morning local time, which helps maximize daytime hours in London but can increase jet lag.
To find cheap flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to London Gatwick Airport (LGW) in November, search flexible dates, set fare alerts, and compare itineraries that route via Dublin (DUB), Reykjavik (KEF), or Amsterdam (AMS). Midweek departures (Tuesday–Thursday) usually offer lower prices outside Thanksgiving. Consider booking 6–8 weeks in advance, using multi-city or mixed-cabin options, and comparing prices to LHR plus a short domestic transfer to Gatwick if that reduces cost. Use primary keywords like 'cheap ORD to LGW' and synonyms like 'discount Chicago to Gatwick fares' when searching to surface targeted deals.
From London Gatwick Airport (LGW), travelers can reach London, Brighton, Croydon, Surrey towns, and the South Coast for day trips. November is ideal for exploring winter light festivals, coastal walks (with appropriate layers), and nearby historic sites with fewer tourists than summer months.
November can bring increased passenger numbers due to autumn breaks and early festive travel, as well as occasional rail engineering and local weather-related disruptions. Monitor airline and Gatwick Airport alerts, and allow extra time for baggage reclaim and onward transport during peak weekends.
