Chicago Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Chicago

Renting a car in and around Chicago offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for those travelling with family or managing multiple pieces of luggage, as a rental car simplifies transportation. You can easily visit key attractions such as Michigan Avenue, known for its vibrant city experiences, or Navy Pier, a popular spot for leisure activities. Millennium Park is also accessible, providing opportunities for family and outdoor experiences.

With a rental car, exploring various neighbourhoods like Downtown Chicago and the Magnificent Mile becomes convenient. Both areas feature notable destinations, including the Field Museum of Natural History and Chicago Botanic Garden in nearby Rosemont. The ability to travel freely allows you to create flexible plans, making it easy to discover new sights or revisit favourite spots. Whether you are seeking city-themed experiences or outdoor family adventures, having a rental car enhances your visit to Chicago, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

Most popular car rentals in Chicago

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travellers comfortably and can handle up to 3 large suitcases. It is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore Chicago and its surrounding areas at their own pace, offering the perfect balance of space and manoeuvrability.
• Standard SUV: With room for 5 travellers and storage for up to 2 medium suitcases, this vehicle is a great choice for couples, families, or groups. The standard SUV provides a versatile option for navigating both urban settings and nearby attractions, ensuring a comfortable travel experience.
• Fullsize: Perfect for accommodating 5 travellers, this car can hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, making it an excellent choice for families and groups. The fullsize vehicle offers ample space for luggage and passengers, enhancing your travel flexibility and convenience while exploring Chicago and its vicinity.

Top rated car suppliers in Chicago

• Sixt: Sixt has established itself as a popular choice in Chicago with 5 rental locations throughout the area. Known for its clean vehicles and friendly service, Sixt boasts an impressive overall rating of 8.6 out of 10. Travellers particularly appreciate the pleasant smell of their cars, enhancing the driving experience. The most booked vehicles from Sixt include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, making it a great option for those needing space and comfort during their travels.
• Enterprise: With over 40 rental locations in and around Chicago, Enterprise is a top choice for many travellers. Recognized for its friendly service and clean vehicles, it has earned a reputation for exceptional customer care. The most popular vehicles rented from Enterprise include Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs, catering to those looking for quality and performance. With a wide selection of vehicles, you can easily find the perfect match for your travel needs.
• Routes: Routes is a convenient option for car rentals in Chicago, offering 1 rental location in the area. While it has a smaller presence compared to other suppliers, it remains a competitive choice with popular vehicles including Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs. Customers appreciate the straightforward rental process and the ability to access suitable vehicles for their journeys around the city.

Where to stay in Chicago

• Downtown Chicago: Situated at the heart of the city, Downtown Chicago is ideal for families and those seeking a vibrant city experience. It offers easy access to popular spots such as Michigan Avenue and State Street, perfect for shopping and exploring. Nearby attractions include the Field Museum of Natural History, a great destination for culture enthusiasts. With numerous restaurants and urban parks, Downtown Chicago provides a dynamic atmosphere, especially appealing in the summer months when outdoor activities abound.
• Schaumburg: Located just outside Chicago, Schaumburg is a family-friendly destination known for its bustling shopping centres and theaters. Key highlights include the Chicago Athenaeum, a museum that offers cultural experiences, and Santa's Village, a theme park suitable for family entertainment. The area is also home to various dining options and event venues, making it a great choice for business travellers as well. Visiting in the fall can provide a delightful seasonal backdrop to your stay.
• Rosemont: Another great option near Chicago, Rosemont combines business and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can enjoy the local theaters and shopping centres while exploring attractions like the Chicago Botanic Garden, perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways. Milwaukee Avenue offers a lively city atmosphere, and Portage Park provides a lovely natural escape. With a variety of dining options, Rosemont is particularly attractive in spring, when the gardens bloom and outdoor activities flourish.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly pricing, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. Renters over 70 years old may also face similar restrictions. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports; however, the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Chicago

The best time to rent a car in and around Chicago is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This period offers excellent value, making it a quiet time for rentals. Following this, March through May sees average prices and demand, presenting a balanced option for those looking to travel. However, from June to August, demand and prices rise, peaking in July as the most expensive month for rentals. August remains busy, while September and October see a return to average pricing and demand levels.