$76 Car Rental Champaign, IL

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Champaign

Renting a car in Champaign is an excellent choice for anyone looking to explore the area with freedom and flexibility. Whether you're a family traveler, a countryside explorer, or on a business trip, a rental car allows you to manage your luggage easily and travel at your own pace. You can conveniently visit key attractions like the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, located just 1 mile away, or catch a show at the State Farm Center, situated within the area of Champaign. For those interested in culture, The Virginia Theatre offers a rich arts experience nearby.

Having a rental car also enables you to venture to popular destinations such as Urbana, only 2 miles from Champaign, where you can explore the Champaign County Fairgrounds and the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. Additionally, you can take a short drive to Clark, home to the same attractions, or visit Tolono, which is 9 miles away and features Hessel Park. With a rental car, you can enjoy the convenience of exploring all these wonderful locations without being restricted by public transportation schedules.

Most popular car rentals in Champaign

• Economy: The economy car is a popular choice for solo travelers, couples, and families, accommodating up to 5 passengers and 2 medium suitcases. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate the city and surrounding countryside, providing flexibility and convenience for your travel plans. This option is perfect for those looking to explore Champaign without the need for excess space, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious tourists.
• Midsize: The midsize car offers a comfortable ride for up to 5 travelers with space for 3 large suitcases. This option strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, making it ideal for couples and families. With a midsize vehicle, you can enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace while having ample room for luggage, ensuring a pleasant experience as you explore the attractions in and around Champaign.
• Fullsize: Fullsize cars are designed for families and groups, accommodating up to 5 passengers with the capacity for 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option provides generous space for everyone and their belongings, making it an excellent choice for those traveling with kids or extra gear. Enjoy the convenience of a fullsize vehicle as you embark on your journey through Champaign, allowing you to make the most of your time and travel comfortably.

Top rated car suppliers in Champaign

• Hertz: With a rental location in the heart of Champaign, Hertz is a popular choice among travelers seeking flexibility. Known for its reliable service, Hertz offers a variety of vehicles, with Midsize and Economy options being the most booked. This makes it easy for visitors to navigate the city and its surroundings without hassle.
• Enterprise: Another top contender in Champaign, Enterprise boasts a convenient rental location. Travelers appreciate the diverse selection of vehicles, particularly Midsize cars and Mini Vans, ideal for families or groups. Enterprise is recognized for its commitment to customer satisfaction, making it a preferred option for those looking to explore the area.
• National Car Rental: National Car Rental has established itself as a leading choice in Champaign with its single rental location. Customers often opt for Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, which are perfect for a comfortable ride while exploring local attractions. National's focus on quality service ensures that renters have a smooth experience from start to finish.

Where to go in and around Champaign

• Urbana: Located 2 miles away from Champaign, Urbana is known for its vibrant culture and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can explore the renowned University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, suitable for those interested in education and city vacations. The Krannert Center for the Performing Arts offers a glimpse into the local cultural scene, while the Champaign County Fairgrounds is perfect for outdoor family activities. The best times to visit are from March to April and in September.
• Clark: Situated around Champaign, Clark is an inviting neighborhood for city and culture lovers. Highlights include the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, providing educational opportunities and urban experiences. The State Farm Center serves as an entertainment hub, hosting various events for families. For outdoor enthusiasts, Hessel Park offers a perfect space to relax and enjoy nature. Peak visitor numbers occur in August and October to November.
• Tolono: Located 9 miles from Champaign, Tolono combines city charm with outdoor experiences. The State Farm Center is accessible for entertainment, while the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers educational visits. Hessel Park is a local favorite for family outings and enjoying the great outdoors. Travelers generally find Tolono most appealing from February to April and less so during May to June and November.

10 tips to save on your Champaign car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary based on demand, making it wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often leads to lower prices and greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance among cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 might encounter higher deposits or daily charges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport usually incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Champaign

The best time to rent a car in and around Champaign is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low, making it a great value period. April also offers a quieter experience with average pricing and low demand. However, as summer arrives, particularly in July, prices rise sharply with high demand, making it the most expensive month to rent a car. August follows closely with slightly high demand and prices, which can make rentals less affordable.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	27.1°F (-2.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	29.8°F (-1.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	63.7°F (17.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	72.0°F (22.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	67.5°F (19.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	42.8°F (6.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	34.0°F (1.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Champaign

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Champaign

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Champaign. 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 Champaign

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $76.

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.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals