Flights From Newark To Chicago: Find The Best Deals

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Flights from Newark, NJ to Chicago, IL: Find the Best Deals

Hey guys! Planning a trip from the Garden State to the Windy City? You're in the right spot! Finding the best flights from Newark, NJ, to Chicago, IL, doesn't have to be a headache. We'll break down everything you need to know to snag a great deal and have a smooth travel experience. Let's dive in!

Why Fly from Newark to Chicago?

Chicago is a vibrant hub, attracting visitors for business, leisure, and everything in between. Whether you're heading there for a deep-dish pizza pilgrimage, a crucial business meeting, or to explore its iconic architecture, getting there easily is key.

  • Business Opportunities: Chicago is a major commercial center. Many corporations have offices located in Chicago. This is why flying from Newark to Chicago can create business opportunities.
  • Tourism and Culture: From Millennium Park to the Art Institute of Chicago, the city is packed with attractions. The city is packed with diverse attractions, including world-class museums, stunning architecture, and vibrant music venues.
  • Convenient Connections: Chicago's O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) airports are major hubs, offering connections to destinations worldwide. If you are looking to continue your journey, then Chicago is a perfect place to connect.

Finding the Best Flights: Your Game Plan

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Securing cheap flights from Newark to Chicago requires a bit of strategy. Here's your step-by-step guide:

  1. Be Flexible with Your Dates: This is flight-booking rule number one. If your travel dates are flexible, you're way more likely to find a better deal. Mid-week flights (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) are often cheaper than weekend flights. Also, consider flying during the off-season or shoulder season (spring or fall) for lower prices and fewer crowds. Play around with different dates on your favorite flight search engines to see the price variations.
  2. Use Flight Comparison Websites: Don't limit yourself to just one website! Use a variety of flight comparison sites like Google Flights, Kayak, Skyscanner, and Expedia to compare prices from different airlines and travel agencies. These sites allow you to see all available flights and filter them by price, time, duration, and airline. Set up price alerts to be notified when the price of your desired flight drops.
  3. Consider Budget Airlines: While they might not offer all the frills, budget airlines like Spirit, Frontier, and Southwest can sometimes offer significantly cheaper flights. Just be sure to factor in extra costs for things like baggage fees, seat selection, and onboard snacks. Read the fine print carefully to avoid any surprises.
  4. Book in Advance (But Not Too Early): There's a sweet spot for booking flights. Generally, booking 1-3 months in advance for domestic flights is a good idea. Booking too early (more than 5-6 months out) might not give you the best prices, as airlines haven't fully adjusted their fares yet. Conversely, waiting until the last minute is usually a recipe for higher prices.
  5. Check for Deals and Promotions: Sign up for email newsletters from airlines and travel agencies to stay informed about deals and promotions. Follow them on social media too, as they often announce flash sales and special offers there. Airlines frequently offer discounts on specific routes or during certain times of the year.
  6. Consider Alternative Airports: While you're probably looking at flights into Chicago O'Hare (ORD) or Chicago Midway (MDW), it's worth checking if flying into a smaller, regional airport nearby could save you money. However, factor in the cost and time of transportation from the regional airport to your final destination in Chicago.
  7. Be Open to Connecting Flights: Non-stop flights are always the most convenient, but they're also usually the most expensive. If you're willing to endure a connecting flight, you can often save a significant amount of money. Just be sure to factor in the layover time and potential for delays.

Newark (EWR) and Chicago (ORD/MDW) Airports: A Quick Guide

Let's get familiar with the airports you'll be dealing with:

  • Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): Located about 15 miles from Midtown Manhattan, Newark Airport is a major hub serving the New York metropolitan area. It has three terminals (A, B, and C). Be sure to check your flight confirmation to confirm which terminal your flight departs from. Allow ample time for transportation to the airport, security checks, and navigating to your gate. Newark offers a variety of transportation options, including taxis, ride-sharing services, and public transportation (NJ Transit).
  • Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD): One of the busiest airports in the world, O'Hare is located about 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. It has four terminals (1, 2, 3, and 5). O'Hare is a major hub for United Airlines and American Airlines. Getting downtown from O'Hare is easy, with options like the CTA Blue Line train, taxis, ride-sharing services, and airport shuttles.
  • Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW): Located about 10 miles southwest of downtown Chicago, Midway is a smaller, more convenient airport than O'Hare. It has one main terminal. Midway is a major hub for Southwest Airlines. Getting downtown from Midway is easy, with options like the CTA Orange Line train, taxis, ride-sharing services, and airport shuttles.

Airlines That Fly from Newark to Chicago

Several airlines operate flights between Newark and Chicago, giving you plenty of options to choose from:

  • United Airlines: United is a major carrier with a large presence at both Newark and Chicago O'Hare. They offer numerous daily non-stop flights between the two cities.
  • American Airlines: American also offers non-stop flights from Newark to Chicago O'Hare, providing another convenient option.
  • Southwest Airlines: Southwest primarily flies into Chicago Midway from Newark. If you're looking for potentially lower fares and free checked bags, Southwest is a good option to consider.
  • Spirit Airlines: Spirit is a budget airline that often offers very low fares. However, be aware of extra fees for things like baggage and seat selection.
  • Frontier Airlines: Similar to Spirit, Frontier is a budget airline that can offer competitive prices, but be sure to factor in extra costs.

Tips for a Smooth Flight

To make your journey from Newark to Chicago as pleasant as possible, keep these tips in mind:

  • Arrive at the Airport Early: Give yourself plenty of time to get through security, especially during peak travel times. Aim to arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights.
  • Pack Smart: Follow TSA guidelines for liquids and prohibited items. Pack essentials like medications, phone chargers, and a book or entertainment in your carry-on bag.
  • Stay Hydrated: Flying can be dehydrating, so drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight.
  • Dress Comfortably: Wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes for your flight.
  • Bring Entertainment: Download movies, podcasts, or audiobooks to keep yourself entertained during the flight. Don't forget your headphones!
  • Charge Your Devices: Make sure your phone, tablet, and other devices are fully charged before you leave for the airport. Consider bringing a portable charger.
  • Be Prepared for Delays: Flight delays can happen, so be prepared for the possibility. Check your flight status before you leave for the airport and sign up for flight alerts.

What to Do in Chicago

Once you arrive in Chicago, get ready to explore! Here are just a few of the many things to see and do:

  • Millennium Park: Home to Cloud Gate (The Bean), Crown Fountain, and Lurie Garden.
  • Art Institute of Chicago: One of the world's leading art museums.
  • Navy Pier: A bustling entertainment and dining destination with stunning views of Lake Michigan.
  • Magnificent Mile: A world-renowned shopping district.
  • Wrigleyville: Home to Wrigley Field, the iconic ballpark of the Chicago Cubs.
  • Deep-Dish Pizza: No trip to Chicago is complete without trying the city's famous deep-dish pizza.

In Conclusion

Finding cheap flights from Newark to Chicago requires a little effort and planning, but it's definitely achievable. By being flexible with your dates, using flight comparison websites, considering budget airlines, and booking in advance, you can snag a great deal and enjoy a fantastic trip to the Windy City. Have a safe and enjoyable flight!