Northwest Chicago Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Northwest Chicago

Renting a car in Northwest Chicago offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and tailor your travel plans to suit your interests. This is particularly beneficial for families and those looking for outdoor adventures or city-themed experiences. For example, you can visit Santa's Village, a family-friendly theme park located 11 km away, or explore Spring Valley, a beautiful preserve just 9 km from Northwest Chicago. Additionally, the Kane County Fairgrounds, situated 21 km away, is perfect for outdoor experiences. A car rental also allows you to venture to nearby cities like Schaumburg, only 6 km away, where you can find attractions such as The Chicago Athenaeum and more. If you're keen on exploring further, Rosemont is 24 km away, featuring sites like the Chicago Botanic Garden, while Arlington Heights, 16 km away, offers cultural experiences at the Metropolis Performing Arts Center. With a rental car, you can make the most of your time in and around Northwest Chicago, enjoying the convenience of traveling on your schedule.

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: With a rental location situated 7 km away from Northwest Chicago, Enterprise is a top choice for travellers seeking convenience. This supplier is known for its diverse fleet, with the Mini Van and Premium SUV AWD being the most booked options. Their commitment to customer satisfaction ensures a smooth rental experience, making it easy for you to explore the area at your leisure.
• Hertz: Located only 5 km from Northwest Chicago, Hertz is another popular option for car rentals. This supplier is well-regarded for its selection of Midsize and Economy vehicles, catering to various travel needs. Their proximity to the city allows for quick pick-up and drop-off, ensuring you can get on the road and start your adventure without delay.
• Avis: Just 2 km away from Northwest Chicago, Avis stands out for its accessibility and customer service. The Standard SUV is their most popular rental choice, appealing to those looking for a comfortable and spacious vehicle. With Avis, you can enjoy a hassle-free rental experience and make the most of your time exploring the attractions around Northwest Chicago.

Where to stay around Northwest Chicago

• Schaumburg: Located 6 km from Northwest Chicago, Schaumburg is a vibrant city ideal for family, business, and city-themed experiences. Visitors can enjoy the nearby shopping centre and theatre, as well as local attractions such as the Chicago Athenaeum museum and Santa's Village theme park. For a relaxing day, Spring Valley reserve offers a natural escape. Dining options abound, with various restaurants and wineries available for a delightful culinary experience.
• Rosemont: Situated 24 km from Northwest Chicago, Rosemont caters to families and business travellers alike. The area features excellent shopping centres and theatres, along with key attractions like the Chicago Botanic Garden and Portage Park, perfect for outdoor and family activities. Milwaukee Avenue provides a lively atmosphere for exploration. Visitors can enjoy a diverse selection of restaurants and pubs, ensuring a satisfying dining experience during their stay.
• Lombard: Lombard, located 21 km from Northwest Chicago, offers a blend of family-friendly and business-oriented experiences. The city is home to shopping centres and educational venues, with attractions like Lilacia Park and the Morton Arboretum providing beautiful outdoor settings. The Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District is a great spot for leisure activities. Lombard also features a variety of restaurants and wineries, making it an appealing destination for food lovers.

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 vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often allows you to lock in lower rates and ensures better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to navigate in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is typically the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental agencies exclusively 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 something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is essential to rent a car.