Northwest Chicago Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Northwest Chicago

Renting a car in Northwest Chicago offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for those looking to visit family-friendly attractions such as Santa's Village, located 11 km away, or the serene Spring Valley, just 9 km from Northwest Chicago. Families can manage luggage easily and travel comfortably together, making it convenient to enjoy outdoor experiences at the Kane County Fairgrounds, which is 21 km away.

A rental car also allows for seamless trips to nearby cities like Schaumburg, only 6 km away, where you can find additional attractions like The Chicago Athenaeum. You can easily reach Rosemont, 24 km from Northwest Chicago, featuring popular spots such as Milwaukee Avenue and the Chicago Botanic Garden. Arlington Heights, located 16 km away, offers enjoyable parks and cultural experiences. With a rental car, navigating Northwest Chicago and its surroundings becomes a hassle-free adventure, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

Most popular car rentals around Northwest Chicago

• Midsize SUV: A popular choice for those travelling in groups, the midsize SUV comfortably accommodates 5 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a blend of space and versatility. With a midsize SUV, you can enjoy ample room for both passengers and luggage, allowing for a more relaxed travel experience while exploring the attractions around Northwest Chicago.
• Mini Van: Perfect for larger families or groups, the mini van provides accommodation for up to 8 travellers and can hold up to 6 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent option for those needing extra space for travel gear and personal belongings. With a mini van, you can comfortably transport everyone together, making it easier to manage your travel plans and ensuring that everyone enjoys the journey as much as the destination.
• Economy: The economy car is a practical choice for solo travellers, couples, or small families, comfortably seating 5 passengers with room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for those looking to explore Northwest Chicago while keeping their rental costs down. With its compact size, the economy car is easy to navigate through the city, making it a great selection for those who prefer efficiency and affordability during their car rental experience.

Top rated car suppliers around Northwest Chicago

• Enterprise: Enterprise has a rental location situated 7 km away from Northwest Chicago, making it a convenient choice for travellers. Known for its excellent customer service, Enterprise offers well-maintained vehicles, with the Mini Van and Premium SUV AWD being the most popular options. This supplier provides flexibility and a solid selection that caters to family and group needs, ensuring a comfortable driving experience during your travels.
• Hertz: Located only 5 km from Northwest Chicago, Hertz is a popular car rental option among visitors. Renowned for its efficient service, Hertz offers a good variety of vehicles, with Midsize and Economy cars frequently booked by customers. This supplier focuses on providing value and convenience, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the area without breaking the bank.
• Avis: Avis is conveniently located just 2 km away from Northwest Chicago, making it an easily accessible option for tourists. The Standard SUV is the most booked vehicle from Avis, appealing to those who desire a spacious and comfortable ride. With its reputation for quality service and reliable vehicles, Avis stands out as a top choice for travellers wanting to explore the region with ease.

Where to stay around Northwest Chicago

• Schaumburg: Located 6 km from Northwest Chicago, Schaumburg is ideal for travellers seeking family, business, or city-themed experiences. Attractions such as the Spring Valley reserve and The Chicago Athenaeum museum cater to diverse interests. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local malls and relaxing at nearby restaurants and wineries. The area also offers venues for conferences and sports events, making it a vibrant spot for both leisure and business.
• Rosemont: Situated 24 km from Northwest Chicago, Rosemont is perfect for family and business travellers. It features a lively shopping scene and various theaters, alongside event venues and sports facilities. Notable highlights include the Chicago Botanic Garden, an excellent choice for outdoor and romantic outings. With many dining options and pubs, Rosemont provides a dynamic atmosphere for visitors looking to explore the city.
• Lombard: Located 21 km from Northwest Chicago, Lombard offers a mix of family-friendly and business-themed experiences. Key attractions include Lilacia Park, known for its beautiful blooms, and the Morton Arboretum, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Lombard is home to shopping centres and educational venues, along with a variety of eateries and wineries. This city is a great base for exploring the surrounding area while enjoying its local offerings.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Northwest Chicago

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise filters on Expedia to help you find the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to book your car well ahead of your trip. By reserving early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable, but ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience of doing so may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is mandatory to rent a car.