✈️ Flight Guide: Seattle (SEA) → Chicago (ORD)

October brings a lively calendar that can affect SEA–ORD travel demand. In Chicago near O'Hare International Airport (ORD), look for the Chicago Marathon (when scheduled in October), Oktoberfest neighborhood events, fall food festivals, and museum exhibits that draw visitors. From Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), fall arts and craft fairs, seafood festivals, and university events (University of Washington home games) can increase local departures. Book flights and hotels early for travel coinciding with major events—midweek travel may avoid crowds and secure better pricing. Check event dates before finalizing October itineraries to ensure smooth travel between Seattle and Chicago.

For October trips from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD), the best combination of price and convenience is often found by booking 6–8 weeks in advance and flying midweek (Tuesday–Thursday). Early morning departures often have fewer delays and can be less expensive than peak afternoon business flights. For the lowest fares, compare flexible dates across a two-week window and watch for mid-week flash sales from major carriers. If you're flexible, consider a red-eye or late-night return to capture off-peak pricing.

Nonstop flights from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) save time (about 4–4.5 hours) and reduce risk of missed connections—ideal for short trips or business travelers. Connecting itineraries can be cheaper, especially if you accept longer total travel times or overnight layovers; they also increase flexibility if nonstop seats are sold out. For October, consider nonstop for convenience around Chicago events and festivals, and choose a connection only if the fare savings justify additional travel time. Always compare total journey time, layover durations, and potential overnight needs when booking.

Alaska Airlines often offers a strong West Coast connectivity and competitive fares with complimentary snacks on many flights; United provides multiple daily nonstops with hub connectivity at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) ideal for onward Midwest connections. American Airlines may offer seasonal nonstop or one-stop options, while Delta provides codeshare and connecting itineraries via its hubs. Loyalty benefits vary—Alaska Mileage Plan is valuable for West Coast flyers, United MileagePlus offers seamless ORD connections, and American AAdvantage/Delta SkyMiles provide mileage opportunities depending on status. Compare total cost including luggage fees and seat selection when choosing the best carrier for your October travel from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD).

Pack layers for October travel between Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and O'Hare International Airport (ORD): a waterproof mid-layer for Seattle rain and a warm coat for cool Chicago evenings. Arrive early at SEA during peak morning rain and monitor ORD arrival times for potential schedule shifts during regional storms. Carry essential travel items in your carry-on—medications, chargers, and a change of clothes—to mitigate delays. For smoother October travel, enroll in TSA PreCheck if eligible, download airline apps for real-time alerts, and confirm ground transport reservations to downtown Chicago or nearby suburbs like Naperville and Evanston.

Nonstop flights from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) generally have block times of approximately 4 to 4.5 hours. In October, airlines operate several daily departures spanning early morning (6:00–9:00 AM), midday (11:00 AM–2:00 PM) and evening windows (5:00–9:00 PM), offering flexibility for business and leisure travelers. Frequency may increase on peak travel days and decrease on weekends or off-peak dates; check airline timetables for exact daily schedules. Connecting options through hubs may extend total travel time but sometimes offer lower fares—balance duration against price when booking October itineraries.

To find cheap flights from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in October, start searching 6–10 weeks before departure and be flexible with travel dates. Midweek departures (Tuesday–Thursday) and late-night flights typically offer lower fares; red-eye options can be particularly economical. Sign up for price alerts, follow airlines on social media for flash sales, and compare bundled fares including carry-on and checked baggage fees to understand total cost. Consider alternate nearby airports only if ground travel savings justify the longer commute—however, SEA and ORD are primary hubs with frequent nonstop options that often represent the best balance of price and convenience. Ready to save? Set alerts for 'Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to O'Hare International Airport (ORD) October' and compare nonstop vs connecting itineraries.