Best Flights starting from $290
from$290economy
Chicago (ORD)
Sat, Oct 10
Roundtrip
San Diego (SAN)
Tue, Oct 13
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Other Options for This Route
Other Destinations
Chicago (ORD) to Nashville (BNA) in October from $39
From $39
Chicago (ORD) to Charlotte (CLT) in October from $54
From $54
Chicago (ORD) to Denver (DEN) in October from $54
From $54
Chicago (ORD) to New York (JFK) in October from $54
From $54
Chicago (ORD) to Atlanta (ATL) in October from $66
From $66
Chicago (ORD) to Orlando (MCO) in October from $68
From $68
Flights from Other Cities
San Francisco (SFO) to San Diego (SAN) in October from $39
From $39
Houston (IAH) to San Diego (SAN) in October from $108
From $108
Dallas (DFW) to San Diego (SAN) in October from $124
From $124
Boston (BOS) to San Diego (SAN) in October from $139
From $139
Atlanta (ATL) to San Diego (SAN) in October from $152
From $152
New York (Any) to San Diego (SAN) in October from $162
From $162
✈️ Flight Guide: Chicago (ORD) → San Diego (SAN)
Complete travel information for your October journey
October is a favorable month to depart from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Diego International Airport (SAN). Cooler Chicago temperatures reduce summer congestion, and October often offers competitive fares for domestic travel. Travelers can find a mix of nonstop and connecting flights, and shoulder-season pricing makes October an attractive time to book flights from ORD to SAN.
Departing from Chicago (ORD) FAQs
In October, the most convenient options to reach O'Hare International Airport (ORD) from downtown Chicago are the CTA Blue Line train, rideshares (Uber/Lyft), and express airport shuttles. The Blue Line runs 24/7 and avoids surface traffic delays common during fall events; rideshares are more flexible for groups or heavy luggage. For cost savings, take the Blue Line and book rideshares in advance to secure fixed pricing—search for flights from ORD to SAN and book your travel day in October early.
For domestic flights from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) in October, arrive at least 90 to 120 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in, TSA security, and occasional fall event crowds. If you have checked bags or are traveling during peak weekday or weekend events in Chicago, add extra time. Check live security wait times and book flights from ORD to SAN early to secure the best fares.
Yes, several major carriers operate nonstop flights between O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and San Diego International Airport (SAN) in October, especially United Airlines and American Airlines along with seasonal or low-cost options depending on the calendar. Nonstop flights vary by day and time, so compare schedules and prices to find the best nonstop option when booking. Use price alerts for ORD to SAN nonstop flights to catch October deals.
Direct flight time from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) is typically about 4 hours and 10 minutes to 4 hours and 45 minutes, depending on winds and routing in October. Connecting itineraries can take significantly longer—plan additional time for layovers. Check flight times and book early for the best October flight schedules from ORD to SAN.
O'Hare International Airport (ORD) offers long-term economy lots, hourly garages near terminals, and valet/short-term parking; October rates are often lower than summer peak but vary by lot and demand. Reserve garage spots online for the best rates and use the airport’s parking map to choose the closest terminal lot. If flying ORD to SAN, compare parking costs vs. rideshare or airport shuttles to save money during your October trip.
October in Chicago can bring variable weather—cooler temperatures, wind, and occasional rain—so allow buffer time for possible delays at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and monitor your carrier’s updates. While major winter disruptions are less common in October, early cold fronts can affect schedules; sign up for airline alerts when booking ORD to SAN flights. For peace of mind, choose refundable or flexible fares for October travel from ORD to SAN.
October arrival into San Diego International Airport (SAN) offers pleasant temperatures, fewer summer crowds, and easy access to top Southern California destinations. Whether visiting La Jolla’s beaches, Coronado Island, or Temecula wine country, October is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the San Diego region after flying in from O'Hare International Airport (ORD).
Arriving at San Diego (SAN) FAQs
When arriving at San Diego International Airport (SAN) in October, expect mild, comfortable weather and efficient customs and baggage handling for domestic flights. October is outside the busy summer season, so ground transportation like rental cars and shuttles tend to be more available; still, reserve rental cars early for the best rates. Search for flights from ORD to SAN in October and book early to secure preferred arrival times.
From San Diego International Airport (SAN), take taxis, rideshares, the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) routes, or rental cars to reach downtown San Diego and nearby destinations like La Jolla. In October, traffic is typically lighter than summer, making rideshare or rental car trips quicker; for budget travelers, use public transit connections to downtown. Book your ORD to SAN flights with arrival window preferences to coordinate ground transfers.
San Diego's Halloween events are generally neighborhood-based and do not significantly impact San Diego International Airport (SAN) operations, but downtown nightlife and event traffic can slightly increase rideshare wait times around October 31. If arriving on or near Halloween, plan extra time for ground transport and consider pre-booking airport shuttles. When booking ORD to SAN flights for October, check arrival times against local event calendars for smooth transfers.
Airline seat and baggage policies arriving at San Diego International Airport (SAN) in October follow carrier rules and typically do not change seasonally, though holiday fare changes begin later in the year. Check your carrier’s baggage allowance and seat assignment policies before flying from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to SAN, and consider purchasing upgraded seating if you prefer extra legroom for the ~4.5-hour trip. Use the airline’s mobile app to manage baggage and boarding passes on arrival.
From San Diego International Airport (SAN) in October, you can easily reach nearby destinations such as La Jolla, Coronado, Carlsbad (north county), Temecula wine country, and even Tijuana for cross-border excursions. October’s pleasant weather makes it a great month for beach visits, coastal drives, and wine-tasting day trips. When booking flights from ORD to SAN, plan side trips and secure ground transport in advance for October.
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October Events Impacting Travel — ORD to SAN
October offers unique events and festivals near both Chicago and San Diego that can influence travel plans. In Chicago, October can include fall festivals and cultural events which may increase demand at O'Hare International Airport (ORD). In San Diego, October features outdoor concerts, wine harvest events in Temecula, and local cultural festivals—perfect for visitors arriving at San Diego International Airport (SAN). Check local event calendars and book flights and accommodations early if traveling for a festival.
Best Time to Fly: O'Hare (ORD) to San Diego (SAN) in October
The best time to fly from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) in October is mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) and during early morning or late evening departures. October is shoulder season—San Diego weather is excellent while Chicago demand softens—so travelers often find lower fares and less crowded flights. For leisure trips, aim for early morning nonstops to maximize your first day in San Diego; for business travel, consider evening returns to complete a full workday.
Direct vs Connecting Flights — ORD to SAN in October
Choosing between direct and connecting flights from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) depends on priorities: direct flights save time (typically ~4 hours 15 minutes) and reduce risk of missed connections, while connecting options via Los Angeles (LAX), Phoenix (PHX), or Dallas (DFW) can lower costs. In October, nonstops are often available but can be pricier; connecting routes may offer flexibility and lower fares for budget-conscious travelers. Consider baggage fees, potential delay risk, and total travel time when deciding.
Airline Comparison: O'Hare (ORD) to San Diego (SAN) in October
Major carriers operating the ORD→SAN route include United Airlines, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines (via connections), and select low-cost carriers depending on seasonal schedules. United often provides multiple nonstops from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) with extensive loyalty benefits. American offers competitive pricing and connections via Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), while Alaska and other carriers can provide good value with hub connections. Compare baggage policies, seat availability, and frequent flyer benefits when choosing an airline for October travel.
Seasonal Travel Tips for October — ORD to SAN
Traveling from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) in October can combine cooler Chicago departures with pleasant San Diego arrivals. Pack layered clothing for Chicago mornings and light attire for San Diego afternoons. Reserve rental cars and rideshares early for arrival day, and consider travel insurance for flexible rebooking should fall weather in Chicago cause disruptions. Use mobile boarding passes and enroll in TSA PreCheck or CLEAR to streamline airport processing at ORD.
Flight Time and Schedules — O'Hare (ORD) to San Diego (SAN) in October
Typical nonstop flight time from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) is about 4 hours 10 minutes to 4 hours 45 minutes depending on winds and routing in October. Major carriers usually offer multiple daily departures—early morning, mid-day, and evening—allowing travelers to pick nonstops that suit business or leisure itineraries. For connecting schedules, common hubs include Los Angeles (LAX), Phoenix (PHX), and Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW); connections can extend travel time by 2–6 hours.
Cheap Flights from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Diego (SAN) in October
Find cheap flights from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) in October by comparing mid-week departures, booking 6–10 weeks ahead, and using fare alerts. Secondary strategies include flying very early mornings or late evenings and checking nearby airports like Los Angeles (LAX) or Phoenix (PHX) for alternative pricing. Use multi-search tools and sign up for price drop notifications to capture last-minute October deals—act fast when a low fare appears.