Car Rental Chatham, IL

These Chatham insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 23, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Chatham

Renting a car in Chatham offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this charming city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Illinois State Museum and the Dana-Thomas House, both located 9 miles away, or the beautiful Washington Park Botanical Gardens, just 7 miles from Chatham. This convenience is particularly appealing for families and those looking for outdoor adventures, as it allows for easy luggage management and spontaneous travel plans. You can also venture to nearby cities like Springfield, where you can explore the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, located only 9 miles away, or visit Glenarm and Curran, both within a short drive, offering additional attractions like Sangchris Lake State Park and AMF Springfield Lanes. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences or outdoor activities, having a rental car makes it simple to discover the best of what Chatham and its neighboring areas have to offer.

Where to stay around Chatham

• Springfield: Located 9 miles away from Chatham, Springfield offers a rich blend of culture and outdoor experiences. Key attractions include the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, perfect for history enthusiasts, and the Illinois State Fairgrounds, ideal for family and outdoor activities. The Illinois State Capitol adds a historic touch to your visit. With nearby food and drink options such as wineries and breweries, Springfield is an excellent choice for those wanting a vibrant urban experience.
• Glenarm: Situated 5 miles from Chatham, Glenarm is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy the Illinois State Museum, which showcases natural history, or explore Sangchris Lake State Park for scenic views and outdoor activities. Washington Park Botanical Gardens offers a beautiful setting for a relaxing stroll. With its amusement parks and arcade adventure zones, Glenarm provides fun options for families seeking adventure.
• Auburn: Just 6 miles away from Chatham, Auburn is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and sports lovers. The area features excellent golf courses and the Illinois State Museum for those interested in culture and history. For scenic outdoor experiences, Sangchris Lake State Park is nearby, offering stunning landscapes. Additionally, the Washington Park Botanical Gardens provides a lovely spot for nature lovers and families alike, making Auburn a well-rounded choice for your stay.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, making it wise to secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking early, you’re more likely to access lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a solid balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This could also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age restrictions before completing your reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most economical choice. Alternatives may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs an additional fee, but this added convenience may be worth the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental agencies only accept credit cards for payments.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of any unforeseen incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, look for rental options 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.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Chatham

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Chatham

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

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

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