Chicago, IL CHI to Santa Barbara, CA SBA Flights

Sat, Nov 29
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Vueling Airlines
easyJet
Ryanair
KM Malta Airlines
Transavia France
1,000+ travel companies
Vueling Airlines
easyJet
Ryanair
KM Malta Airlines
Transavia France
1,000+ travel companies
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Journey information

Overview: Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA flight

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Flights from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA depart on average 34 times per day, taking around 7h 42m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $172 (€139) if you book in advance.

The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 22:10. The fastest flight covers the 1803 miles (2903 km) distance in 7h 42m. September is the cheapest month to fly.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
1803 miles (2903 km)
Average flight duration
7h 42m
Cheapest ticket price
$172 (€139)
Flights per day
34
Fastest flight
7h 42m
Cheapest month to travel
September
First flight
05:00
Last flight
22:10
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from €139. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 7h 42m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of €139, and a bus costs an average of €207.

Distance: 1803 miles (2903 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Train
Bus

€139

Average price

Cheapest

€186

Average price

€207

Average price

10h 42m

Average total duration

Fastest

7h 42m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

46h 10m

Average total duration

45h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

54h 20m

Average total duration

53h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

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FAQs: Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA by flight. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Santa Barbara, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $227 (€184) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA is $310 (€251); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by plane from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA is 7 h   to travel the 1800 mile (2903 km) long trip, with around there are 24 flights per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The earliest flight from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 5: 00AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest flight from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 9: 22PM.
The cheapest month to travel from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA by plane is September.
You have options as you can travel from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA 3 different ways: bus, train or flight.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Santa Barbara, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of USA and USA. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
There is a time difference of 2 h between Chicago, IL and Santa Barbara, CA all year round.
The best events to attend in Santa Barbara, CA include:
  • Santa Barbara International Film Festival, a prestigious event showcasing independent films and attracting filmmakers from around the world
  • Old Spanish Days Fiesta, a vibrant celebration of Santa Barbara's rich cultural heritage with parades, music, and traditional food
  • Santa Barbara Harbor & Seafood Festival, an annual festival celebrating the local fishing industry with fresh seafood tastings and family-friendly activities.
The best holidays to experience in Santa Barbara, CA include:
  • Independence Day, vibrant fireworks and festive celebrations along the coast
  • Labor Day, pleasant weather perfect for beach activities and local events
  • Memorial Day, a great time for outdoor adventures with fewer crowds.
The best seasons to visit Santa Barbara, CA are Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Santa Barbara, CA is during April-October.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e. G. 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs).
Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you.
Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.

popular airports

Popular airports from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA

Chicago
Santa Barbara
The major airport for departures in Chicago is O'Hare International Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at O'Hare International Airport for your trip from Chicago to Santa Barbara.
Amenities at airport
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
carConnection
Car connection
I-190, Exit 1
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Shops are located in all terminals, including duty-free and brands like Hudson and MAC Cosmetics.
Parking
Parking
  • Parking available with options including hourly, daily, and economy lots, approximately 2.85€ ($3) per hour.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurants are located in all terminals, offering a variety of cuisines including American and intertiol. Top options include Tortas Frontera and Publican Tavern.
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, toilets
WC
WC
  • Available throughout the airport.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotels such as Hilton Chicago O'Hare are located on airport grounds, with others like the Hyatt Regency nearby.
Shower
Shower
  • Showers are available in some lounges, such as the United Club, but access may require a fee or membership.
Lounge
Lounge
  • Lounges available, including United Club and American Airlines Admirals Club.
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Lost and Found located in terminal 1, near the baggage claim area.
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Car rental services are available at the Multi-Modal Facility, with companies like Hertz and Avis.
Public transit options for O'Hare International Airport
  • CTA Blue Line, O'Hare Station, 45 minutes to city center

Most popular flights to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Chicago, IL

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