Chicago To NYC Flights: Find The Best Deals On Google

Nov 13, 2025 by Alex Braham 54 views

Planning a trip from the Windy City to the Big Apple? You're not alone! Flying from Chicago to New York is one of the most popular routes in the US, and finding the best deals can be a game-changer for your travel budget. Let's dive into how to use Google Flights to snag those sweet, sweet savings, making your journey from Chicago to New York not just memorable, but also affordable.

Why Use Google Flights?

Okay, guys, let’s be real. There are tons of flight search engines out there, so why should you bother with Google Flights? Well, for starters, it's incredibly comprehensive. Google Flights pulls data from a vast network of airlines and online travel agencies, ensuring you're seeing almost every available option. This means more choices and a higher chance of finding a deal that fits your needs.

But wait, there's more! Google Flights also boasts a user-friendly interface. You can easily compare prices, dates, and even different airports to find the absolute best combination. Plus, it offers features like price tracking and flexible date searching, which we'll get into later. Trust me; once you start using Google Flights, you'll wonder how you ever planned trips without it.

Another huge advantage is its transparency. Unlike some other search engines that might bury extra fees or inflate prices, Google Flights generally shows you the real deal. What you see is typically what you get, give or take a few potential baggage fees (always double-check those!). So, whether you're a seasoned traveler or a newbie, Google Flights can simplify the often-stressful process of booking flights.

How to Search for Flights from Chicago to New York on Google

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to search for flights from Chicago to New York using Google Flights:

Head to Google Flights: Open your web browser and type "Google Flights" into the search bar. Click on the first result, which should take you directly to the Google Flights homepage.
Enter Your Departure and Arrival Cities: In the designated fields, type "Chicago" as your departure city and "New York" as your arrival city. Google Flights will suggest airports in those areas. For Chicago, you’ll likely see options like O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). For New York, you might see John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Choose the airports that are most convenient for you.
Select Your Dates: Click on the calendar icon to open the date picker. Choose your desired departure and return dates. If you're flexible, you can use the "Flexible dates" option to see a calendar view of prices for different days. This is an awesome way to spot cheaper fares if your travel dates aren't set in stone.
Specify the Number of Passengers: Indicate how many adults, children, or infants will be traveling. The price will adjust accordingly.
Choose Your Cabin Class: Select your preferred cabin class, such as Economy, Premium Economy, Business, or First Class. Keep in mind that the higher the class, the higher the price.
Hit Search: Click the "Search" button, and Google Flights will start scouring the web for available flights.
Review and Filter Results: Once the results load, you'll see a list of flights with prices, airlines, and layovers. You can use the filter options on the left-hand side to narrow down your choices based on criteria like price, airline, layover duration, and more. This is where you can really customize your search to find the perfect flight.
Select Your Flights: Choose your outbound and return flights. Be sure to pay attention to the details, such as baggage allowance and layover times.
Book Your Flights: After selecting your flights, Google Flights will redirect you to the airline's website or an online travel agency to complete your booking. Always double-check the details before confirming your purchase.

Tips and Tricks for Finding the Best Deals

Okay, you've got the basics down. But how do you really maximize your chances of finding a steal of a deal? Here are some insider tips and tricks:

Be Flexible with Your Dates: As mentioned earlier, being flexible with your travel dates can save you a ton of money. Use the "Flexible dates" option on Google Flights to see a calendar view of prices. Sometimes, flying just a day or two earlier or later can result in significant savings.
Consider Alternative Airports: Don't limit yourself to just one airport in each city. Chicago has O'Hare and Midway, while New York has JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark. Flying into or out of a less popular airport can sometimes be cheaper.
Set Up Price Alerts: Google Flights allows you to track prices for specific routes. Simply select your desired flights and click the "Track prices" button. You'll receive email notifications when the price changes, so you can pounce when it drops.
Look for Layovers: Non-stop flights are convenient, but they're often more expensive. Consider flights with layovers, especially if you're on a budget. Sometimes, a short layover can save you a significant amount of money.
Fly on Off-Peak Days: Weekends and holidays are typically the most expensive times to fly. If possible, try to fly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays, which tend to be cheaper.
Book in Advance (But Not Too Early): There's a sweet spot for booking flights. Generally, it's best to book a few months in advance for domestic flights. Booking too early (more than six months out) or too late (less than a month out) can result in higher prices.
Check Budget Airlines: While Google Flights includes many airlines, it's always a good idea to check budget airlines like Southwest separately. They may not always appear in Google Flights results.

Understanding Flight Prices: What to Consider

Navigating the world of flight prices can feel like decoding a secret language. Here's what you need to keep in mind:

Base Fare: This is the basic cost of the flight before any taxes or fees are added.
Taxes and Fees: These can include airport taxes, security fees, and other surcharges. They can add a significant amount to the overall price.
Baggage Fees: Most airlines charge extra for checked baggage. Be sure to factor in these fees when comparing prices.
Seat Selection Fees: Some airlines charge extra for seat selection, especially for preferred seats like those with extra legroom.
Change and Cancellation Fees: These fees can be hefty if you need to change or cancel your flight. Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected events.

What to Do in New York City

So, you've booked your flight from Chicago to New York. Awesome! Now it's time to start planning your itinerary. New York City has something for everyone, whether you're into art, history, food, or entertainment.

Visit Iconic Landmarks: No trip to New York is complete without seeing the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Times Square.
Explore World-Class Museums: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and the American Museum of Natural History are just a few of the incredible museums in New York.
Catch a Broadway Show: New York is the theater capital of the world. See a Broadway show for an unforgettable experience.
Stroll Through Central Park: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a relaxing walk through Central Park.
Sample Diverse Cuisine: New York is a foodie paradise. From pizza and bagels to international cuisine, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Conclusion

Finding the best deals on flights from Chicago to New York doesn't have to be a stressful ordeal. By using Google Flights and following these tips and tricks, you can snag affordable fares and make your trip planning a breeze. Remember to be flexible with your dates, consider alternative airports, and set up price alerts to stay informed about the latest deals. Happy travels, guys! Enjoy your trip from Chicago to the amazing New York City!