How to find cheap flights to Illinois?

✈️ Illinois (ORD, MDW) is a major air travel hub in the U.S., anchored by Chicago O’Hare International (ORD) and Chicago Midway (MDW). Whether you’re planning a business trip or vacation, this guide shows you how to uncover cheap flights with real flight deal examples, airline hacks, nonstop flight pricing, airport tips, baggage fee insights, credit card travel boosts, and more.

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✈️ Flight Deals to Illinois

Finding cheap flights to Illinois (ORD, MDW) starts with comparing fares across several flight search engines such as Google Flights, Skyscanner, and KAYAK.

Example Deals (sample prices):

  • ATL → ORD from $98–$128 roundtrip
  • DFW → MDW from $105–$139 roundtrip
  • LAX → ORD from $138 roundtrip

⏰ Best Times to Book

For the lowest fares to Illinois, book about 6–8 weeks ahead for domestic routes and start searching 3–4 months out for summer travel. Flying Tuesday or Wednesday often helps lower costs.

💸 Cheapest Month to Fly to Illinois

The cheapest months to fly into ORD/MDW typically include January & February and September & October, with roundtrip flights often 20–35% cheaper.

🛩️ Nonstop Flights — Airlines + Prices (samples)

United Airlines (united.com)

  • ATL → ORD from $98+
  • DEN → ORD from $115+
  • IAH → ORD from $110+

American Airlines (aa.com)

  • DFW → ORD from $105+
  • CLT → ORD from $118+
  • MIA → ORD from $122+

Delta Air Lines (delta.com)

  • MSP → ORD from $102+
  • DTW → ORD from $99+
  • SLC → ORD from $120+

Spirit Airlines (spirit.com)

  • FLL → MDW from $89+
  • MCO → MDW from $95+

🛫 Illinois Airport Guide (ORD, MDW)

Chicago O’Hare International (ORD) is ideal for international & domestic hubs. Chicago Midway (MDW) focuses on low-cost carriers and proximity to downtown.

🧠 Airline Hacks

  • Use incognito mode while searching
  • Set price alerts on Google Flights & Skyscanner
  • Mix one-way fares for better deals

🧳 Baggage Fees Explained

Typical fees include basic economy carry-ons (~$0–30) and checked bags (~$30–$40). Budget airlines may charge extra for carry-ons/seats.

💳 Credit Card Travel Tips

Travel credit cards with free checked bags, airline credits, and priority boarding can save $150–$450.

⚡ Last-Minute Flights

Last-minute flights to Illinois can become more affordable if you fly mid-week (Tuesday/Wednesday). Tools like Skyscanner and Google Flights help find same-week deals.

🛡️ Travel Insurance

Insurance helps with cancellations and delays, with basic policies starting around $12–$25.

💡 Pro Tip

Try flying into MDW and returning from ORD for composite lower fares on multi-city searches.