Submit feedbackComplete travel information for your October journey
October at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) brings cooler temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and consistent air service to major West Coast hubs like Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Travelers should expect multiple daily nonstop and connecting flights; morning and early evening are busiest. Use airport resources, TSA PreCheck, and frequent-flyer programs to streamline departures. Nearby major cities commonly accessed from ORD include Milwaukee, Indianapolis, Detroit, and Madison — include these when comparing fares for cheaper alternatives. Book 3–8 weeks in advance for the best October fares and set price alerts to capture last-minute sales.
In October, security wait times at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) average 10–30 minutes for TSA PreCheck and 20–50 minutes for standard lanes, with mornings and early evenings busiest. Weekend and holiday spikes can increase waits; arrive 2 hours before domestic departures and 3 hours for international flights to be safe. Use the TSA app and airline notifications for live updates and consider PreCheck to speed up screening.
Yes — airlines typically maintain multiple daily nonstop flights between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) in October, with peak options early in the week and mid-morning departures. Frequency can vary by airline; book early to lock in nonstop ORD to SEA flight times. Check United Airlines and Alaska Airlines schedules for the most nonstop options and set price alerts for best fares.
The most reliable ways to reach Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) from downtown in October are the CTA Blue Line (about 45–50 minutes), airport shuttles, taxis, rideshares, or Metra combined with local transit. Allow extra time for fall construction or weekend events and factor in morning rush-hour traffic. Book a rideshare or check Blue Line schedules for the most predictable travel.
October can bring variable weather—rain, early snow flurries, and high winds—that occasionally cause delays at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). While major winter storms are more common later, fall weather systems can disrupt schedules; airlines may proactively cancel or rebook flights. Check NOAA forecasts and your airline's status before travel and enroll in flight alerts to receive rebooking options quickly.
For cheaper ORD to SEA flights in October, target midweek departures (Tuesday–Thursday), early morning or red-eye flights, and book 3–8 weeks in advance. Use fare comparison tools and flexible-date searches to capture lower fares; last-minute deals appear less often on this popular business and leisure route. Sign up for price alerts and consider nearby airports like Milwaukee or Rockford for alternate savings.
Passengers using Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) commonly access nearby major cities such as Milwaukee, Indianapolis, Madison, Detroit, and the wider Chicago metro area. ORD is a major hub for connecting travelers to the Midwest and serves as a gateway to national destinations like New York, Los Angeles, and Seattle. When searching for flights, include nearby cities in fare comparisons to find additional route options.
October arrivals at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) encounter crisp, rainy weather and vibrant fall scenery across the Puget Sound region. The Link Light Rail connects SEA to downtown Seattle quickly and reliably, while rideshares and shuttles serve Bellevue, Tacoma, and Everett. Expect increased passenger volumes on event weekends and opt for flexible tickets if your itinerary includes Mariners games or fall festivals. Popular nearby destinations accessed from SEA include Pike Place Market, Mount Rainier National Park, Bainbridge Island, and Vancouver, B.C.; plan for variable weather and shorter daylight hours.
October in Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) typically brings cool, wet weather with daytime temperatures averaging 50–60°F (10–15°C) and regular light rain. Pack a waterproof jacket and layers for variable conditions, and expect overcast skies that may affect outdoor plans like whale-watching or ferry rides. Check local forecasts before departure and plan indoor activities like Pike Place Market on rainy days.
From Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to downtown Seattle in October, take the Link Light Rail (about 35–45 minutes), shuttle buses, taxis, or rideshares; travel time varies with rain and traffic. The Link Light Rail is a reliable, cost-effective option that avoids road congestion and is often preferred during fall events. Buy an ORCA card or mobile ticket for convenience and check transit schedules for October event-related service changes.
October hosts multiple events that influence travel to and from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). In Chicago, fall cultural festivals, theater seasons, and occasional sports playoff travel can increase demand. In Seattle, October brings arts festivals, film events, and potential Mariners playoff games that spike passenger volumes and lodging rates. If your trip coincides with major events, expect busier airports, higher fares, and increased demand for ground transportation; book accommodations and transfers early.
The best time to fly ORD to SEA in October is midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) and during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening) for lower fares and less crowded terminals. For the most reliable weather windows, book daytime flights to avoid early-morning fog or late-night rain delays on the Seattle side. If you want milder weather for outdoor activities, schedule your arrival for early October when temperatures are still relatively mild and daylight lasts longer.
Nonstop flights between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) save time (roughly 4h20) and reduce connection risk but often cost more. Connecting itineraries through hubs like Denver or Minneapolis may be cheaper, especially in October shoulder season, but add potential delays and layover stress. For tight schedules or short trips, choose nonstop; for budget-conscious travelers willing to trade time for savings, consider a single-connection itinerary. Always factor in total door-to-door time and make contingency plans for weather-related delays in October.
United Airlines typically offers multiple daily nonstop flights between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) with convenient schedules and loyalty options. Alaska Airlines is strong on SEA connectivity and offers competitive fares and Seattle-area recency but may route through another hub for certain flights. Delta and American often provide one-stop options via their hubs (e.g., Minneapolis, Detroit) that can be lower-priced. Compare baggage policies, upgrade availability, and on-time performance in October; frequent flyers should weigh loyalty benefits when booking.
Pack waterproof outer layers, quick-dry clothing, and an umbrella for Seattle's October rain; bring a warm sweater for cooler Chicago mornings and layered clothing for variable temperatures. At Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), expect construction and periodic platform changes on transit routes—allow extra time. Use the Link Light Rail for dependable travel from SEA to downtown Seattle and carry chargers and entertainment for potential delays. Purchase refundable or flexible tickets if attending outdoor events in October and consider travel insurance for weather-related cancellations.
Nonstop flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) typically take about 4 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 30 minutes in October, depending on winds and routing. Multiple carriers operate daily service with peak departures in the morning and early evening to serve business travelers. Connecting flights via hubs like Denver, Minneapolis, or San Francisco add 1.5–4 hours of travel time depending on layovers. Always verify your carrier's scheduled block time and check for seasonal timetable changes in October.
To find cheap ORD to SEA flights in October, search 3–8 weeks before departure and favor midweek travel (Tuesday–Thursday) and early-morning or late-night red-eye flights. Use flexible-date calendars, set multiple price alerts, and compare round-trip vs. one-way fares. Consider connecting itineraries via Minneapolis or Denver if nonstop fares are high. Look for airline sales from United and Alaska Airlines in the fall shoulder season and use rewards points or credit card travel portals for added savings.
Yes — October in Seattle features events like fall cultural festivals, Mariners baseball playoff runs (when applicable), and Halloween activities that can increase demand for flights and lodging near Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Large events may raise fares and airport traffic; book transportation and hotels early. See local event calendars and consider arriving earlier in the day to avoid crowds.
From Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), travelers commonly access downtown Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, Everett, Bainbridge Island, Olympic National Park, and Vancouver, B.C. SEA is a regional hub for exploring the Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands, Mount Rainier National Park, and nearby cities like Portland. Consider multi-destination itineraries in October for fall foliage and lower shoulder-season rates.
In October, expect wet conditions and occasional low clouds that can affect ground transport; bring waterproof footwear and allow extra time for baggage claim and transfers. Use the Link Light Rail to avoid traffic during festivals, and check airline alerts for potential weather-related changes. Purchase travel insurance if you have tight connections or outdoor activities planned on arrival day.
Baggage claim waits at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) in October usually range from 15–40 minutes depending on the airline, time of day, and any weather impacts. International arrivals or large flights may take longer; use airline apps for live updates and consider bringing essential items in your carry-on. If you have a tight connection, request gate-checking or priority baggage when available.
