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Journey information
Overview: San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL flight
USAUSA
Flights from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL depart on average 43 times per day, taking around 4h 33m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $50 (€40) if you book in advance.
There are 9 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 23:58. The fastest flight covers the 1729 miles (2784 km) distance in 3h 59m. December 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 1729 miles (2784 km) |
Average flight duration 4h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€40) |
Flights per day 43 |
Direct flights 9 |
Fastest flight 3h 59m |
First flight 5:00 AM |
Last flight 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 56 days |
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
The cheapest and fastest flights from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for May 27
Cheapest price
$87
Average price
$306
Fastest journey
4 h 4 m
Average duration
5 h 11 m
Flights per day
5
Distance
2784 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around $306 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $87.
Fast flights
Of the 5 flights that leave San Diego, CA for Chicago, IL onWed, May 27, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, May 27 the direct flights cover the 2784 km distance in an average of 5 h 11 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 4 h 4 m .
On Wed, May 27 the longest flights will take 9 h 20 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
6:35 AM4h04San Diego, CA10:39 AMChicago, IL$871One-way0 transfers
3:05 AM9h20San Diego, CA12:25 PMChicago, IL$1051One-way0 transfers
5:52 PM4h12San Diego, CA10:04 PMChicago, IL$4341One-way0 transfers- 9:10 PM4h12San Diego, CA1:22 AMChicago, IL$4521One-way0 transfers
- 5:40 AM4h05San Diego, CA9:45 AMChicago, IL$4531One-way0 transfers
- 6:35 AM4h04San Diego, CA10:39 AMChicago, IL$871One-way0 transfers
- 5:40 AM4h05San Diego, CA9:45 AMChicago, IL$4531One-way0 transfers
- 5:52 PM4h12San Diego, CA10:04 PMChicago, IL$4341One-way0 transfers
- 9:10 PM4h12San Diego, CA1:22 AMChicago, IL$4521One-way0 transfers
- 3:05 AM9h20San Diego, CA12:25 PMChicago, IL$1051One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $50. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 33m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.8 - 2.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $50, and a train costs an average of $200.
Distance: 1729 miles (2784 km)
Compare flight with
| Flight | Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$324 Average price Cheapest | $459 Average price | $355 Average price | $435 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 33m Average total duration Fastest 4h 33m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 49h 31m Average total duration 49h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 49h 18m Average total duration 48h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 30h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
8.4 - 16.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.8 - 7.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular airline |  Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL is a flight with an average price of $324 (€261).
This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL:
A flight is $31 (€25) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $355 (€286).
A flight is $135 (€109) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $459 (€370).
The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 33m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 48h 48m.
Train takes on average 49h 1m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Live departures
San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL flight times
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL flights for today, Monday, May 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AA1651 · AA2907 | 6:50 AM San Diego International Airport | 7h53 | 4:43 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA1651 · AA536 | 6:50 AM San Diego International Airport | 8h50 | 5:40 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
 AS1495 | 7:00 AM San Diego International Airport | 4h14 | 1:14 PM O'Hare International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| AS709 · AS538 | 7:15 AM San Diego International Airport | 14h44 | 11:59 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AS709 · AS409 | 7:15 AM San Diego International Airport | 9h48 | 7:03 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2274 · UA1954 | 7:15 AM San Diego International Airport | 7h27 | 4:42 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AS709 · AS410 | 7:15 AM San Diego International Airport | 13h44 | 10:59 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA373 · AA2740 | 7:15 AM San Diego International Airport | 8h56 | 6:11 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA1261 | 7:28 AM San Diego International Airport | 4h23 | 1:51 PM O'Hare International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| UA5519 · UA2317 | 7:58 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 8h42 | 6:40 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5519 · UA1954 | 7:58 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 6h44 | 4:42 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5519 · UA1777 | 7:58 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 11h30 | 9:28 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA1055 · AA2740 | 8:05 AM San Diego International Airport | 8h06 | 6:11 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1071 · UA2497 | 8:32 AM San Diego International Airport | 8h23 | 6:55 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5520 · UA1023 | 8:40 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 8h11 | 6:51 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5520 · UA617 | 8:40 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 6h25 | 5:05 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2476 · UA617 | 8:45 AM San Diego International Airport | 6h20 | 5:05 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA520 · UA2317 | 9:26 AM San Diego International Airport | 7h14 | 6:40 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA2461 · AA338 | 9:47 AM San Diego International Airport | 6h10 | 5:57 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA2687 · AA1424 | 9:54 AM San Diego International Airport | 9h21 | 9:15 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA2687 · AA2474 | 9:54 AM San Diego International Airport | 7h39 | 7:33 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA2484 | 9:57 AM San Diego International Airport | 4h26 | 4:23 PM O'Hare International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| AS1368 · AS410 | 10:11 AM San Diego International Airport | 10h48 | 10:59 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AS1368 · AS538 | 10:11 AM San Diego International Airport | 11h48 | 11:59 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2165 · UA2135 | 10:13 AM San Diego International Airport | 8h03 | 8:16 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1710 | 10:34 AM San Diego International Airport | 4h20 | 4:54 PM O'Hare International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| UA5384 · UA457 | 10:49 AM San Diego International Airport | 6h16 | 7:05 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5384 · UA2487 | 10:49 AM San Diego International Airport | 8h01 | 8:50 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1337 · UA675 | 10:55 AM San Diego International Airport | 7h10 | 8:05 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA2476 · AA1424 | 10:57 AM San Diego International Airport | 8h18 | 9:15 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA2476 · AA1893 | 10:57 AM San Diego International Airport | 7h24 | 8:21 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AS726 · AS410 | 11:18 AM San Diego International Airport | 9h41 | 10:59 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AS726 · AS538 | 11:18 AM San Diego International Airport | 10h41 | 11:59 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2428 · UA1777 | 11:55 AM San Diego International Airport | 7h33 | 9:28 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2237 · UA1752 | 11:58 AM San Diego International Airport | 9h16 | 11:14 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2237 · UA2197 | 11:58 AM San Diego International Airport | 7h53 | 9:51 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA1467 · AA1424 | 12:20 PM San Diego International Airport | 6h55 | 9:15 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AS685 · AS538 | 12:28 PM San Diego International Airport | 9h31 | 11:59 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AS685 · AS410 | 12:28 PM San Diego International Airport | 8h31 | 10:59 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AS685 · AS328 | 12:28 PM San Diego International Airport | 15h52 | 6:20 AM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1565 · UA1411 | 12:33 PM San Diego International Airport | 7h21 | 9:54 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AS1478 | 12:34 PM San Diego International Airport | 4h16 | 6:50 PM O'Hare International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| UA5515 · UA1411 | 12:52 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 7h02 | 9:54 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5515 · UA2258 | 12:52 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 7h57 | 10:49 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA444 · UA1738 | 12:57 PM San Diego International Airport | 8h29 | 11:26 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA795 | 1:19 PM San Diego International Airport | 4h35 | 7:54 PM O'Hare International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| AA2465 · AA3014 | 1:21 PM San Diego International Airport | 8h38 | 11:59 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1763 · UA2077 | 1:39 PM San Diego International Airport | 7h20 | 10:59 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1763 | 1:39 PM San Diego International Airport | 9h20 | 12:59 AM O'Hare International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| AA2456 · AA2346 | 1:55 PM San Diego International Airport | 7h42 | 11:37 PM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA2456 · AA1193 | 1:55 PM San Diego International Airport | 8h47 | 12:42 AM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1779 | 2:08 PM San Diego International Airport | 4h20 | 8:28 PM O'Hare International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| AA2459 · AA1193 | 3:10 PM San Diego International Airport | 7h32 | 12:42 AM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AS622 · AS328 | 3:56 PM San Diego International Airport | 12h24 | 6:20 AM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA2470 · AA3137 | 4:22 PM San Diego International Airport | 6h08 | 12:30 AM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2486 | 4:41 PM San Diego International Airport | 4h18 | 10:59 PM O'Hare International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| AS574 · AS328 | 5:17 PM San Diego International Airport | 11h03 | 6:20 AM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AS1493 | 5:44 PM San Diego International Airport | 4h11 | 11:55 PM O'Hare International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| AS1308 · AS328 | 6:19 PM San Diego International Airport | 10h01 | 6:20 AM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2278 | 7:41 PM San Diego International Airport | 7h17 | 4:58 AM O'Hare International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| AS652 · AS328 | 8:04 PM San Diego International Airport | 8h16 | 6:20 AM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| Tuesday, May 26 | |||||
| 3:05 AM San Diego, CA | 9h20 | 12:25 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, May 25 | |||||
| UA5636 · UA729 | 8:32 PM San Diego International Airport | 8h00 | 6:32 AM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1827 · UA567 | 9:05 PM San Diego International Airport | 9h55 | 9:00 AM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2129 · UA1775 | 9:45 PM San Diego International Airport | 9h51 | 9:36 AM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA2468 · AA2843 | 10:28 PM San Diego International Airport | 8h34 | 9:02 AM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA327 · UA2488 | 10:30 PM San Diego International Airport | 9h14 | 9:44 AM O'Hare International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1457 | 10:40 PM San Diego International Airport | 4h09 | 4:49 AM O'Hare International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, May 26 | |||||
| 5:40 AM San Diego, CA | 4h05 | 9:45 AM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, May 25 | |||||
| AA1543 | 10:45 PM San Diego International Airport | 4h33 | 5:18 AM O'Hare International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:35 AM San Diego, CA | 4h04 | 10:39 AM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL 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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May 26
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Why should you book San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL flights with Omio?
Spirit Airlines as well as American Airlines or United offer flights services from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio vs Spirit Airlines?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Spirit Airlines, but also compare tickets for the likes of American Airlines or United to find the best option for your trip from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Spirit Airlines with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio over Edreams, Kayak or Trip?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of American Airlines or United to find the best option for your trip from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.
Airlines: Spirit Airlines, American Airlines, United from San Diego, CA to Chicago, ILFind the best flights between San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL with Omio's travel partners Spirit Airlines, American Airlines, United from $50 (€40). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
United
About
United Airlines, established in 1926, is a major U.S. airline headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. Operating an extensive domestic and international network, United serves more destinations than any other airline, connecting travelers across six continents. The airline's eight hubs include Chicago–O'Hare, Denver, Houston–Intercontinental, Los Angeles, Newark, San Francisco, Washington–Dulles, and Guam. As a founding member of the Star Alliance, United offers a comprehensive range of services, including regional flights through United Express, catering to both leisure and business travelers. The airline is committed to sustainability, investing in sustainable aviation fuel and innovative technologies to reduce its environmental impact.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 59m
Cheapest Price
$260 (€210)
Luggage included
Carry-on baggage allowance is 7kg total (2 pieces max. ) for both Choice and Flex fares on United Airlines and Virgin Australia flights.
Additional luggage
Excess baggage fees apply for additional checked luggage beyond the standard allowance.
Luggage storage
Both airlines provide checked baggage services for storing luggage during flights.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation fees apply per person, per booking, with specific fees for different fare types.
Refund
Not applicable to flights; however, full refunds are available if flights are canceled by the airline.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers are permitted to travel, with specific guidelines and medical certificates required after a certain gestational period.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors are permitted to travel, with specific age restrictions and services provided.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Meals and snacks are included on international flights operated by United Airlines and Virgin Australia.
Seat reservation
Seat selection may incur additional fees, depending on the fare type and airline.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
United Airlines and Virgin Australia offer services to and within Australia, providing accessible travel options for passengers with mobility needs.
Bikes
Both airlines permit bicycles onboard, with specific guidelines and fees.
Pets
United Airlines and Virgin Australia allow pets onboard, subject to specific policies and fees.
American Airlines
About
American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, connecting travelers to hundreds of destinations across the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Operating from major hubs such as Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, and Charlotte, American offers a wide range of travel options. Passengers can choose from Economy with affordable fares, Premium Economy with extra space, or Business and First Class featuring flat-bed seats, premium dining, and lounge access. With a modern fleet and membership in the oneworld alliance, American Airlines combines global reach with comfort and reliability.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 4m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€40)
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches) and 1 personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches) included in most fares
Additional luggage
Checked bags fees vary by route. First checked bag typically $30, second $40 on domestic flights
Cancellation Policy
Basic Economy tickets cannot be changed or refunded. Other fares allow changes with fee, refunds subject to fare rules.
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly up to 36 weeks for single pregnancies, 32 weeks for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required within 7 days of departure if within 4 weeks of due date.
Unaccompagned minor
Children ages 5-14 can travel alone using American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service. Service fee is $150 each way.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
American Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities. Assistance must be requested at least 48 hours before departure.
Pets
Small dogs and cats allowed in cabin for $125 fee. Must be in approved carrier under seat. Service animals allowed.
Spirit Airlines
About
Spirit Airlines is an American ultra-low-cost carrier, headquartered in Dania Beach, Florida, operating scheduled flights throughout the United States, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Known for its distinctive bright yellow planes, Spirit's business model traditionally focuses on offering low base fares by unbundling services, allowing passengers to pay only for the amenities they choose, such as baggage and seat selection. As of August 2024, Spirit is evolving its offerings, introducing new fare tiers like "Go Big," "Go Comfy," "Go Savvy," and "Go," which include various bundled perks such as wider seats, extra legroom, priority boarding, and in-flight refreshments. Spirit was the seventh largest passenger carrier in North America as of 2023.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 20m
Cheapest Price
$105 (€85)
Luggage included
Personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches) included
Additional luggage
Checked bags: First bag $79-89, Second bag $89-99, Additional bags $105-110
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation within 24 hours of booking is free, after that fees apply based on fare type and timing
Pregnant on board
Up to 7 days before departure with medical certificate. After 28 weeks, medical certificate required
Unaccompagned minor
Ages 5-14 can travel as unaccompanied minors for $100 fee per direction. Service not available on international flights or connecting flights
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Accessibility
Spirit Airlines offers assistance for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair services and priority boarding. Passengers are encouraged to request assistance at least 48 hours in advance to ensure availability.
FAQs: San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $50 (€40) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL is $324 (€261) ; 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 San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL is 3h 59m to travel the 1729 miles (2784 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there are 9 direct flights a day from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL, you can count on Spirit Airlines, American Airlines, United for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between San Diego, CA and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL generally leave from San Diego International Airport and arrive in O'Hare International Airport.San Diego International Airport is 2 miles (4 km) away from San Diego, CA city centre and O'Hare International Airport is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor Chicago, IL are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. 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 San Diego, CA and Chicago, IL all year round.
The best events to attend in Chicago, IL include:
- Chicago Air and Water Show, an exhilarating display of military and civilian aircraft performing daring maneuvers over Lake Michigan
- Lollapalooza, a massive music festival featuring top artists across multiple genres in Grant Park
- Chicago Gourmet, a premier culinary event celebrating the city's vibrant food scene with tastings, cooking demonstrations, and wine pairings.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Chicago, IL are:
- Millennium Park, a public park known for its modern art installations and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture
- Art Institute of Chicago, a renowned museum housing an extensive collection of art from around the world
- Navy Pier, a popular entertainment destination featuring rides, restaurants, and lakefront views
- Willis Tower Skydeck, an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere
- Field Museum, a natural history museum with vast exhibits including the famous T. rex skeleton, Sue.
The best holidays to experience in Chicago, IL include:
- Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer with vibrant outdoor activities and events
- Independence Day, spectacular fireworks and festive celebrations throughout the city
- Labor Day, a lively atmosphere with various festivals and pleasant weather.
The best things to do in Chicago, IL include:
- Museum of Science and Industry, an interactive museum featuring exhibits on science, technology, and industry
- Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Chicago, such as Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, known for their unique shops and eateries
- Take a river cruise to see the city's iconic architecture from a different perspective
- Attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre
- Enjoy a day at Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., offering free admission.
The best season to visit Chicago, IL is Spring or Summer. The best weather to explore Chicago, IL is during May-September.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
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.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular airports
Popular airports from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL
San Diego
Chicago
The major airport for departures in San Diego is San Diego International Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Diego International Airport for your trip from San Diego to Chicago.
Amenities at airport
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Car Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
4 km
Car connection
I-5, exit Sassafras StWifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops in terminals 1 and 2, including Duty-Free and Hudson News.
Parking
- Parking available, price varies.
Dining
- Restaurants in terminals 1 and 2, including fast food and sit-down options like The Counter and Phil's BBQ
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Hotel
- Hotels nearby, Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Mari within walking distance.
Shower
- Showers available at the Airspace Lounge, access fee required.
Lounge
- Lounges available, including United Club and Airspace Lounge.
Lost and Found Office
- Lost and Found located in terminal 2 East, baggage claim area.
Car Rental
- Car rental services available at Rental Car Center, free shuttle from terminals
Public transit options for San Diego International Airport
- Bus Route 992, Airport Station, 4.8 km
McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD)
Amenities at airport
Accessibilityinformation
Accessibility
- The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible
The major airport for arrivals 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 journey to Chicago from San Diego.
Amenities at airport
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeCar Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmCar connection
I-190, Exit 1Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops are located in all terminals, including duty-free and brands like Hudson and MAC Cosmetics.
Parking
- Parking available with options including hourly, daily, and economy lots, approximately 2.85€ ($3) per hour.
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
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, toilets
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Hotel
- Hotels such as Hilton Chicago O'Hare are located on airport grounds, with others like the Hyatt Regency nearby.
Shower
- Showers are available in some lounges, such as the United Club, but access may require a fee or membership.
Lounge
- Lounges available, including United Club and American Airlines Admirals Club.
Lost and Found Office
- Lost and Found located in terminal 1, near the baggage claim area.
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
More options for your journey from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Chicago, IL and San Diego, CA
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