Best time to go to Chicago

There’s a pretty drastic difference between winter and summer in Chicago. In the warmer months – from June to August – the temperature is in the mid-20s, but can peak at 30°C on good days. At the other end of the scale, from December to February, snowy spells and freezing temperatures aren’t uncommon. If you’re happy to risk a bit rain for the perk of milder days, spring’s the time to come.

Passports & Visas

The USA has a visa waiver programme, which lets Irish tourists visit for up to 90 days without a visa. You must get an authorisation from the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) 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 Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFA).

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 through our visa and travel authorisation partner – Sherpa. For the latest advice and costs, check the US Customs and Border Protection website or the DFA travel advice for USA page.

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 https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/united-states-of-america/

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.