So You Want to Ditch the Deep Dish for Tim Tams: How Long is a Flight from Chicago to Australia?
Let's face it, Chicago is awesome. Deep dish pizza, world-class museums, and that bean... thing (hey, it's a cultural icon, okay?). But sometimes, a wanderlust for wide-open spaces, cuddly koalas, and the Great Barrier Reef hits you harder than a Midwestern winter. That's when you set your sights on Australia, the land down under where everything wants to kill you (but it's super pretty, so there's that).
But before you chuck your Cubs hat in the bin and swap it for a cork hat (because apparently those are a thing in Oz?), there's a burning question: exactly how long does it take to fly from Chicago to Australia? Buckle up, mateys, because it's a doozy.
Hold Your Ketchup, This Ain't a Weekend Trip
Flying from Chicago to Australia is a marathon, not a sprint. We're talking about some serious hours here, folks. The distance is enough to make even a frequent flyer's knees weak. Imagine tossing a frisbee and it landing in Sydney – that's the kind of long-distance we're dealing with.
Depending on the route and number of layovers, you can expect to be airborne for anywhere between 20 to 35 hours. That's a whole lot of time to:
- Binge-watch every season of your favorite show. Twice.
- Become an expert on in-flight entertainment. You'll know every cheesy rom-com and questionable documentary like the back of your hand.
- Develop a deep appreciation for airplane peanuts. Because let's be honest, those are the only complimentary snacks that won't leave you questioning your life choices.
Pro tip: Pack comfy clothes, an eye mask, and a noise-canceling headset. Your fellow passengers and aching muscles will thank you.
Don't Despair, There's Light at the End of the Tunnel (Even If It's 20 Hours Away)
The good news is, there are ways to make the flight a little less, well, excruciating.
- Look for flights with fewer layovers. Direct flights are the holy grail, but even one stopover can make a big difference.
- Choose airlines with decent legroom and entertainment options. Nobody wants to be stuck in a cattle car with nothing but reruns of Friends for entertainment.
- Get those miles moving! Frequent flyer programs can be your saving grace, especially when it comes to scoring upgrades and priority boarding.
Remember, Australia is worth it. The beaches, the wildlife, the people (who all seem to have suspiciously good tans) – it's an adventure waiting to happen. So, toughen up those glutes, pack your patience, and get ready to trade your winter coat for a swimsuit. The land of Oz awaits!
