Best time to go to Chicago

Chicago experiences cold, blustery winters and warm, humid summers. December, January and February see flurries of snow, and temperatures drop well below freezing. In June through to August, though, temperatures usually sit around 26°C, but can reach highs of 30°C and above. The rainiest months are May and June, so if you’re visiting then, don’t forget to pack your umbrella. Autumn, meanwhile, sees mild weather and plenty of sunshine.

Passports & Visas

The USA has a visa waiver programme, which lets British tourists visit for up to 90 days without a visa. You must get an authorisation from ESTA – the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation – before you travel. The US also has specific passport requirements, so it’s a good idea to check that your passport will be accepted. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) USA travel advice

You may not qualify for the Visa Waiver Programme (ESTA) if you have certain criminal records, or if you’ve visited specific countries. For example, if you’ve been to Cuba on or after 12th January 2021, you may need to apply for a visa instead of an ESTA. A visa takes more time to process, so it’s good to make these checks early. For a small fee, you can apply for your visa through our visa and travel authorisation partner – Sherpa. For the latest advice and costs, check the US Customs and Border Protection website or the UK FCDO USA travel advice page.

Don't forget to arrange your travel money and insurance before you go.

Health & Safety

You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover you while you’re away. For the latest health and safety information, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/usa/health

Important to note on your return – Carriage of Light Sabers on TUI Airways flights from Melbourne Orlando International Airport. Light Sabers purchased on holiday will be accepted for carriage as hand luggage on your return flight, under the following conditions only:

• They must be disassembled into the component parts (hilt and ‘blade’) prior to travel.
• They must not be removed from any case or carrying device at any point whist in the airport environment (except to permit screening by any airport official agents)
• They must not be, under any circumstances, removed from any case or carrying device onboard the aircraft.
• They must be presented at check in, and not be modified in any way.