Submit feedbackSubmit feedbackComplete travel information for your December journey
December is a high-demand month at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) for travelers heading to Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA). Expect heavier check-in lines, seasonal pricing increases, and strong demand for nonstop flights to Chicago O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW). Major nearby destinations often accessed from SFO include San Jose, Oakland, Napa Valley, Sacramento, Monterey, Santa Cruz and Los Angeles. Book early-morning nonstops for better on-time performance and compare fares across carriers. CTA: Search and book San Francisco to Chicago December nonstop flights now to lock in holiday fares and preferred schedules.
For December travel from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA), arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic departure and 3 hours for early morning peak holiday flights. December brings holiday crowds and occasional weather delays, so allow extra time for security lines, bag drop and parking shuttles. Use mobile check-in and TSA PreCheck if available to speed up your departure.
The busiest travel days at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) in December are typically the Friday before winter holidays, the Sunday after Christmas, and the days around Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Mid-week dates earlier in December are usually quieter and often cheaper. Book early-morning or late-night flights for lower crowds and better chances of on-time departures.
Yes. Major carriers operate direct nonstop flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Chicago O'Hare and sometimes to Midway during December, with airlines such as United, American and Alaska offering frequent nonstop options. Availability increases around the holidays, so book as soon as you find a convenient nonstop schedule to secure seats and better fares.
While San Francisco International Airport (SFO) rarely sees snow, December weather can bring rain and strong winds that may cause delays or cancellations. More commonly, winter storms in the Midwest impact return flights and connecting passengers. Monitor weather forecasts, enroll in airline alerts, and consider refundable fares or travel insurance for December Chicago trips.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers long-term and hourly parking, as well as BART and shuttle services that are handy for December travel. Consider off-site parking with a shuttle for lower rates, or take BART for a car-free trip to downtown San Francisco. During busy December periods, reserve airport parking in advance and allow extra travel time for shuttles and traffic.
As of December this year, most U.S. domestic carriers and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) follow CDC guidance; mask and testing mandates are generally lifted but policies can change during winter surges. Check airline and SFO official advisories before travel, and pack proof of vaccination or negative tests if your connecting airline or final destination requires them. Booking flexible tickets and travel insurance can provide extra protection during winter volatility.
December arrivals at Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) should plan for winter conditions and higher passenger volumes. O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) are the primary arrival points; verify your terminal and consider the Blue Line or Metra for downtown access when roads are slick. Nearby major cities commonly accessed from CHIA include Milwaukee, Indianapolis and Detroit. CTA and rideshares operate throughout winter, but allow extra time for de-icing and snow removal. CTA: Check real-time flight status and pre-book airport transfers to ensure smooth December arrivals into Chicago.
Arriving at Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) in December means preparing for cold temperatures, possible snow, and busy holiday crowds. Plan for longer immigration/ground-transport waits if you connect through O'Hare (ORD) or Midway (MDW), and allow extra time for baggage claims and rideshares. Pack insulated layers and check Chicago-area transit advisories and weather forecasts before landing.
Nonstop flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) commonly arrive at Chicago O'Hare International (ORD) Terminal 1 or Terminal 3 depending on the airline; some flights may arrive at Chicago Midway (MDW). Because CHIA denotes all airports in Chicago, check your airline confirmation for your exact terminal and arrival airport. Use the airport's website or airline app for real-time terminal updates in December when winter operations can change gates.
Yes, major ground transport options—CTA trains and buses, Metra, rideshare, taxis and rental cars—operate year-round at Chicago airports, but December weather can slow surface transit. Allow extra time for snow removal, and consider booking airport shuttle or ride-hailing in advance during holiday peak days. For downtown access, the Blue Line from O'Hare offers a predictable alternative to road travel during snow.
December in Chicago offers iconic winter attractions accessible from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA): Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza, Millennium Park ice skating, Magnificent Mile holiday lights, the Nutcracker performances and New Year’s Eve celebrations. These events draw visitors from nearby cities such as Milwaukee and Indianapolis, so book event tickets and transportation in advance during peak December weekends. CTA: Plan holiday activities in Chicago and reserve tickets early to guarantee access during busy December dates.
The best time to fly from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) in December is typically mid-week in early-to-mid December (Tuesdays–Thursdays) when fares dip and airport crowds are lighter. Avoid peak holiday dates around December 23–26 and New Year’s Eve. Book at least 3–6 weeks ahead for holiday travel; last-minute fares often spike. CTA: Use flexible-date searches and fare trackers to pinpoint the cheapest December travel windows.
Nonstop flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) are faster and reduce risk of missed connections, a critical advantage during winter travel in December. Connecting flights can be significantly cheaper, especially on midweek departures or with alternative carriers, but increase exposure to delays and missed connections. If you value time and reliability during snowy Chicago conditions, choose nonstop; if you prioritize price and are willing to accept a longer travel day, a one-stop itinerary may save money. CTA: Compare nonstop and one-stop options to decide the best December itinerary for your needs.
In December, United frequently offers the most nonstop options between San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Chicago O'Hare (ORD), prized for schedule frequency and route reliability. American and Delta often provide competitive connecting itineraries and occasional nonstops, while Alaska may offer seasonal or one-stop options through West Coast hubs. Compare baggage fees, seat selection policies and loyalty program benefits: United and American tend to have more daily nonstop frequencies, while connecting itineraries on Delta can be cheaper if you accept longer travel times. CTA: Compare December fares, baggage rules and flight times across airlines to choose the best balance of price and convenience.
Prepare for December travel from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) by packing warm layers, checking de-icing delay likelihoods, and choosing flexible tickets. Keep chargers, essential medications and a change of clothes in your carry-on in case of baggage delays. Monitor airline alerts, use mobile check-in, and plan ground transport ahead of arrival—book shared shuttles or rideshares in advance when traveling to downtown Chicago during snow events. CTA: Pack smart and purchase flexible fares for peace of mind on December travel.
Nonstop flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD) typically take about 4 hours 10 minutes to 4 hours 30 minutes, while one-stop itineraries vary widely (5.5–8+ hours). In December, morning and late-evening nonstops are common; red-eye flights can be less expensive but may be impacted by winter delays. For best schedule reliability, choose early-morning departures from SFO. CTA: Check real-time schedules and book preferred nonstop times for December travel.
To find cheap December flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA), search flexible dates, target mid-December weekdays, and set fare alerts. Consider one-stop connections with airlines like Delta or American for lower prices than nonstop United service. Use LSI phrases in searches such as 'holiday airfare', 'last-minute December fares', and 'SFO Chicago flight deals'. CTA: Sign up for fare alerts and compare multiple carriers to lock in the best December price.
Chicago often sees daytime highs in the 30s–40s °F (0–5 °C) and sub-freezing nights in December, with wind chill intensifying the cold. Arrivals should be prepared for icy sidewalks and potential de-icing delays for inbound aircraft. Dress in layers and leave time to collect luggage and navigate outdoor pickup zones.
Yes. December arrivals can easily access Christkindlmarket, Millennium Park ice skating, Magnificent Mile holiday lights, and seasonal performances at the Chicago Theatre. Many tourists fly into CHIA to visit nearby major cities and attractions including Milwaukee, Indianapolis, Detroit and Madison for extended Midwest winter itineraries. Book tickets early for popular December holiday events.
For December arrivals, verify airline-specific health policies and check Chicago airports' official pages for winter operations, including delays or reduced services due to weather. While most mandates have eased, airlines may adjust boarding or onboard policies seasonally. Keep airline contact details handy and sign up for real-time alerts to manage any last-minute changes.
