Car Rental at Chicago Executive Airport (PWK)

Reasons to book a car rental at Chicago Airport

Renting a car at Chicago airport is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the area with freedom and flexibility. It allows you to manage your luggage easily while providing the convenience to visit attractions at your own pace. For families and outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Chicago Botanic Garden, located 6 miles away, offers a beautiful setting for a day out. If you're interested in entertainment, the Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District, situated 10 miles away, is perfect for a fun-filled outing. Culture seekers can visit the historic Prospect Heights City Hall, just 2 miles from the airport. Additionally, a rental car makes it simple to discover the vibrant city of Chicago itself, with attractions like Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park. You can also explore the nearby cities of Wheeling, known for Six Flags Great America and the Chicago Botanic Garden, and Prospect Heights, which features the same attractions as well as the Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District. Overall, renting a car provides a friendly experience, making it easy to enjoy various landscapes and activities around Chicago airport.

Most popular car rentals near Chicago Airport

• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV is a popular choice among travelers at Chicago airport, accommodating up to 5 passengers and offering space for 3 medium suitcases. This vehicle is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking for versatility and comfort. Its size makes navigating city streets and parking easier, while still providing ample room for your luggage.
• Fullsize: For families or groups, the Fullsize car is frequently booked, offering seating for 5 travelers and the capacity to hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for those needing extra space for passengers and belongings, ensuring a comfortable ride as you explore the area around Chicago airport.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is another top choice for travelers, accommodating 5 passengers with the ability to carry up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle strikes a balance between comfort and space, making it suitable for families, couples, or small groups. With a Midsize SUV, you can enjoy a smooth ride while having enough room for your luggage as you travel from Chicago airport.

Top rated car suppliers near Chicago Airport

• Enterprise: With 5 rental locations, Enterprise is a highly convenient option for travelers at Chicago airport, as the nearest location is less than 1 mile away. Known for its clean and friendly service, Enterprise provides a hassle-free rental experience. The most booked vehicles with this supplier are the Mini Van and Midsize SUV, making it an excellent choice for families or those needing extra space.
• Budget: Budget has 3 rental locations, all conveniently located less than 1 mile from Chicago airport. This supplier is recognized for offering competitive pricing and a solid selection of vehicles. Popular choices among travelers include the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV, ideal for those looking for comfort and versatility during their stay in the Chicago area.
• Avis: Avis also features 3 rental locations, with the nearest being less than 1 mile from Chicago airport. This supplier is well-known for its reliable service and a variety of vehicle options. The Midsize SUV and Standard SUV are the most booked cars, catering to travelers who desire both practicality and a comfortable ride while exploring the region.

Where to stay near Chicago Airport

• Chicago: Staying in Chicago offers a vibrant city experience with access to popular attractions like Michigan Avenue, known for its shopping and dining options. The iconic Navy Pier and Millennium Park are also within reach, providing plenty of family-friendly outdoor spaces. Enjoy a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues, making it a bustling hub for travelers looking to immerse themselves in city life.
• Forest Lake: Located 10 miles from Chicago, Forest Lake is a charming village perfect for family and business travelers. Here, you can explore the scenic lake and urban parks, or visit the nearby Six Flags Great America for exhilarating amusement. The local shopping centers and restaurants provide a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quieter stay while remaining close to the city.
• Hawthorn Woods: Also situated 10 miles from Chicago, Hawthorn Woods is a delightful area for outdoor enthusiasts and families. With access to golf courses and shopping centers, you can enjoy a mix of leisure and retail therapy. Attractions like Six Flags Great America and the Lake County Fairgrounds cater to family-friendly activities, ensuring a memorable visit while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.

9 tips to save on your Airport car rental near Chicago

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, use Expedia's filters to identify the ideal vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure lower rates and a wider selection, it's generally advisable to book your PWK car rental as early as possible. Aim to finalize your reservation 1-3 months ahead of your trip, especially during busy travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might have restricted availability. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before confirming your reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and simpler to park in crowded locations. Mid-size options provide a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options. Just ensure that you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies require a credit card in the name of the driver for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Rental car insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provide peace of mind if something goes wrong during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend significant time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Chicago Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Chicago Airport is in February, when both prices and demand are low. January offers slightly low prices with average demand, making it a decent option as well. Following that, March shows slightly low demand but average pricing. However, August is the most expensive month, with high demand and slightly high prices, making it a less favorable time for rentals. July and August remain busy months for car rentals in Chicago.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	25.7°F (-3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	27.0°F (-2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	37.0°F (2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
April	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
October	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	33.1°F (0.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average