$31 Car Rental Central Illinois, IL

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What you need to know for your Central Illinois car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Central Illinois

Renting a car in Central Illinois offers you the freedom to explore a variety of attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your needs. This is particularly appealing for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. Within a short drive, you can visit the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, located 5 miles away, perfect for cultural experiences. For family-friendly outdoor fun, Lowery Park, also 5 miles away, and Ryan Park, 12 miles away, are great options. The nearby cities of Gibson City and Elliott, both 5 miles from Central Illinois, provide additional attractions like Wabash Park and more parks for eco-friendly experiences. Foosland, located 6 miles away, features the Maybery Gelvin Botanical Garden for nature lovers. A rental car allows families, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture seekers to explore these destinations conveniently, making it an excellent choice for your trip in and around Central Illinois.

Where to stay around Central Illinois

  • Rantoul: Located 11 miles from Central Illinois, Rantoul is a vibrant city offering a culture-themed, family-friendly experience. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as the modern college university and sports facility stadium. For outdoor activities, the urban parks like Ryan Park, Wabash Park, and Brookhill Park provide perfect spots for relaxation and recreation. Food options include local restaurants and wineries, making Rantoul a delightful stop for both culture and culinary enthusiasts.
  • Gibson City: Situated 5 miles from Central Illinois, Gibson City is known for its outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. The area features a modern college university and a recreational area for visitors to explore. Key points of interest include urban parks like Ryan Park and Wabash Park, ideal for family outings. Additionally, the local shopping centre and distilleries offer diverse dining and shopping options, creating a well-rounded visit.
  • Foosland: Just 6 miles away from Central Illinois, Foosland is a charming city with unique attractions for travelers. Highlights include the Maybery Gelvin Botanical Garden, perfect for family and romantic outings, and Lowery Park, an eco-friendly space ideal for outdoor activities. The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses adds a cultural touch to your visit, making Foosland a quaint destination for those seeking both relaxation and exploration.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Central Illinois

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, use the filters on Expedia to find the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically cost less to rent and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals may require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just remember to return the car empty in that 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 worth it.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Central Illinois

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Central Illinois into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Central Illinois and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Central Illinois

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Central Illinois. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Central Illinois

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $31.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$31
 
Our second best deal of the day
$45
 
Our third best deal of the day
$52
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Central Illinois?
You can find cheap car rentals in Central Illinois from $10 a day with Routes's midsize 2/4 door. Car rentals for exploring Central Illinois are picked up at the region's main gateway, Chicago - O Hare Internat (ORD). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Springfield and Champaign. Suppliers such as Sixt, Enterprise, Alamo Rent A Car, Avis, and Budget operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Central Illinois.
What are the best car rentals in Central Illinois?
Car rentals across Central Illinois offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, broadly available in the region's main cities - Springfield, Champaign, and Urbana. The most common car classes include:
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact SUV
These options cater to various traveler needs, whether you're a solo explorer, a couple, or a family. Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Central Illinois.

What are the best car rental companies in Central Illinois?
For car rentals across Central Illinois, well-rated providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities - Springfield, Champaign, and Urbana. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Chicago - O Hare Internat (ORD) for exploring Central Illinois?
Yes - you can pick up a rental car right at Chicago - O Hare Internat (ORD) for exploring Central Illinois. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car operate at the airport, with rates from around $14 a day. ORD is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Springfield to Champaign.
Can I rent a car one-way in Central Illinois?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Central Illinois - pick up in one city, such as Springfield, and drop-off in another, like Champaign, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $12 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Central Illinois?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Central Illinois, including in Springfield and Champaign. Sixt and Enterprise both offer hybrid options from $10 a day. Additionally, Sixt provides electric options from $17 a day. These vehicles keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand can be high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Central Illinois?
For luxury car rentals across Central Illinois, Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars from $22 a day (and midsize elite SUV from $23), while Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car add premium categories - high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Springfield and Champaign. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Central Illinois.
What are the best car rentals in Central Illinois for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Central Illinois, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage - available across the region's cities, from Springfield to Champaign:
  • Sixt: midsize SUV from $15 a day - seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: mini passenger van from $29 a day - seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Alamo Rent A Car: fullsize SUV from $32 a day - seats up to 6 people with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Central Illinois.

What are the best car rentals in Central Illinois for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Central Illinois for solo travelers are economy and compact classes - small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Springfield and Champaign:
  • Economy car, from $16 a day - fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $16 a day - fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Central Illinois.

What are the best car rentals in Central Illinois for couples?
The best car rentals in Central Illinois for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Springfield and Champaign:
  • Midsize car, from $15 a day - fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $16 a day - fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Central Illinois.

What are the closest airports to Central Illinois for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Central Illinois offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Chicago - O Hare Internat (ORD)
  • Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI) serving Springfield
  • Willard Airport (CMI) serving Champaign and Urbana
These options provide convenient access to the region. Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Central Illinois?
In Central Illinois, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities like Springfield and Champaign, and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust - take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Central Illinois?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Central Illinois. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Central Illinois?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Central Illinois?
Budget car rental in Central Illinois can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $31. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Central Illinois?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Central Illinois. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Central Illinois car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Central Illinois?
To rent a car in Central Illinois, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Central Illinois car rental?
If you need to cancel your Central Illinois car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

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