How long is the drive?

The drive is approximately 42 hours of active driving time.

Is there a train to LA?

Amtrak offers cross-country routes, but they require multiple transfers and take several days.

What is the best airport?

LAX is the largest, but Burbank (BUR) is often more convenient for local travel.

Yes, Los Angeles is a sprawling city where a car is almost mandatory for visitors.

Is it safe to drive across the country?

Yes, the interstate system is safe, provided you maintain your vehicle and stay alert.

Chesapeake

Los Angeles

Flight Driving

Chesapeake to Los Angeles

Updated: 28 May 2026

The trek from Chesapeake to Los Angeles is a major cross-country journey of nearly 2,800 miles. Flying from Norfolk International Airport (ORF) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the standard choice, taking about 6 hours. Driving is a multi-day expedition requiring at least 40 hours of road time, typically following I-40 West. You will cross the heart of the American West, including the deserts of Arizona and the mountains of New Mexico. This is a significant travel commitment requiring careful planning.

Total Distance: Driving distance 4,500 km, straight-line air distance 3,800 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from Norfolk International Airport (ORF) takes approximately 6 to 8 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Flying is often cheaper than the total cost of fuel, hotels, and food for a 4-day drive.

Compare Chesapeake to Los Angeles Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	6 hours	42 hours
Avg Price	$400 - $800	$500 - $900 in fuel
Operator	Delta Air Lines	Personal Vehicle
Route	ORF to LAX	I-64 W to I-40 W
Tip	Most flights require a layover in a hub like Atlanta or Dallas.	Plan for at least four days of driving to ensure safety and rest.

Travel Tips

Traffic
LA traffic is legendary; use navigation apps to avoid peak hours on the 405 and 101 freeways.
Airport Choice
Consider flying into Burbank (BUR) for a less stressful experience than LAX.
Public Transit
The Metro rail system is improving, but you will likely still need a car or ride-share for most trips.
Sun Protection
The California sun is strong; wear sunscreen and sunglasses even on overcast days.
Reservations
Book popular restaurants and museum tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Safety Tips

Desert Driving
If driving, carry extra water and check your coolant levels before crossing the Mojave Desert.
Urban Awareness
Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas like Hollywood Boulevard.
Emergency Kit
Keep a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle for long-distance travel.
Navigation
Download offline maps for remote stretches of I-40 where cell service may be spotty.