Tips for Flying Out of Chicago O’Hare

Recently ranked as the 6th largest airport in the United States by World Atlas, Chicago O’Hare is also one of the busiest. ORD handles roughly 70 million passengers each year. About 1180 flights depart from O’Hare each day. If you’re flying out of this popular Chicago airport, use following tips to plan a smooth getaway.

• Apply for TSA Pre-Check — The Transportation Security Administration’s Pre-Check program can help speed you through security. This involves filling out an application, undergoing a background check, and submitting your fingerprints. If you’re a frequent flyer, this could be worth your time.
• Check out O’Hare Airport maps — With 191 gates spread across 4 terminals, navigating the airport can be a major trek — not to mention finding available parking. Download maps from Chicago Department of Aviation’s website and find out exactly where you should go. Maps are also handy for checking out dining options or determining where to claim your bags.
• Download an O’Hare Airport app — Available on Google Play and Apple’s App Store, airport apps put flight status information and airport maps in your hands.
• Check FlyChicago.com for important airport news — Construction projects, weather systems, and other factors could impact your travel plans. Fortunately, the Chicago Department of Aviation website offers the latest updates.
• Reserve airport parking — Chicago O’Hare airport parking lots accommodate 22,837 cars. While that seems like a lot, that’s roughly 19 cars per flight. If you’d prefer not to risk not being able to find parking at O’Hare, reserve a parking spot at Park N Jet. Our rates are low and we’re just a 5-to-7 minute shuttle ride away from the terminals.
• Be aware of O’Hare’s long-term parking policy — If you plan on parking at Chicago O’Hare airport for more than 30 days, make sure to communicate with the Parking Garage Office. Otherwise, they’ll consider your car abandoned and tow it away! Unless you park in the cheapest O’Hare parking lot (Lot G), you’ll also come home to a larger-than-necessary bill. Offsite airport parking at Park N Jet can save you a lot of money.
• Bring your own empty water bottle — Due to security concerns, travelers can no longer bring water bottles through security. Chicago O’Hare has numerous water bottle filling stations located throughout its terminals, allowing travelers to bring their own empty water bottles and fill them once past security checkpoints.

Flying out of Chicago O’Hare International Airport is less stressful when you have a plan. Get off to a great start by reserving your discount airport parking now.