Will I need all season tires or winter tires? What about chains?

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I will be driving from the west coast to the east coast on December.
Since it is my first time on a long trip in the winter time, should I just drive with an ALL SEASON TIRE all the way passing through Illinois?

My other options are:

1)Purchase winter tires in cold states within
2)Drive with all season tires and put chains (But is it durable enough for a long drive?)
3) Drive with winter tires from the west coast to the east coast.

Are any of these a good option?

Thanks!!