Car Rental at Coles County Memorial Airport (MTO)

Reasons to book a car rental at Mattoon Airport

Renting a car at Mattoon Airport is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the beautiful countryside and nearby attractions at their own pace. This option is particularly appealing for family travelers, business professionals, and countryside explorers, as it allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit notable sites such as Eastern Illinois University, located only 5 miles away, and the historic Lincoln Log Cabin, which is just 8 miles from the airport. For outdoor enthusiasts, Mattoon Peterson Park, situated merely 4 miles away, offers a family-friendly urban park experience.

Additionally, a rental car opens up the opportunity to explore nearby cities like Charleston, just 6 miles away, where you can enjoy attractions such as Fox Ridge State Park and Lantz Arena. Arcola, located 14 miles from the airport, features highlights like the Hippie Memorial and Rockome Gardens. Toledo, 15 miles away, is known for the Jackson Truss Covered Bridge and the World's Largest Mailbox. With the freedom and flexibility of a rental car, your travel experience around Mattoon and its surroundings can be tailored to your preferences.

Most popular car rentals near Mattoon Airport

• Midsize: This car option is perfect for couples and families, comfortably accommodating up to 5 travelers along with 3 large suitcases. Renting a midsize car at Mattoon airport allows you the freedom to explore the beautiful countryside at your own pace, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a spacious ride without compromising on comfort.
• Compact: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the compact car fits up to 5 travelers with the capacity for 3 medium suitcases. This option is popular among those seeking a budget-friendly yet versatile vehicle, providing the ease of navigating smaller roads around Mattoon while still offering enough room for your luggage and essentials.
• Fullsize: For families or groups needing more space, the fullsize car is a top choice, accommodating up to 5 travelers and offering the flexibility to carry either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for those who require extra room for luggage while enjoying the convenience of renting a vehicle that can handle longer trips and various travel plans.

Top rated car suppliers near Mattoon Airport

• Enterprise: Known for its excellent customer service, Enterprise has a rental location situated 5 miles away from Mattoon airport. This supplier is particularly popular among travelers, offering a variety of vehicles with a focus on Midsize and Compact options. Renting a car from Enterprise allows you the freedom to explore the surrounding attractions at your own pace, making it a convenient choice for visitors to the area.

Where to go near Mattoon Airport

• Arcola: Located 14 miles from Mattoon, Arcola is a city that offers a blend of culture and outdoor experiences. Visitors are drawn to attractions like Eastern Illinois University, where you can enjoy the campus environment. The Hippie Memorial serves as a cultural landmark, while Rockome Gardens provides a beautiful urban park setting perfect for family outings. The best months to visit are March, July, and September when traveler numbers peak, making it an ideal time to explore the local charm.
• Charleston: Just 6 miles away from Mattoon, Charleston is another vibrant city known for its outdoor and cultural experiences. Key highlights include Eastern Illinois University, which adds an educational touch to your visit. For outdoor enthusiasts, Fox Ridge State Park offers stunning scenery and adventure opportunities. Lantz Arena is a great spot for family entertainment. Peak visitor numbers are observed in April to May and September, making these months perfect for planning your stay.
• Toledo: Situated 15 miles from Mattoon, Toledo is a charming city perfect for those seeking outdoor and scenic experiences. Notable attractions include the historic Jackson Truss Covered Bridge and the World's Largest Mailbox, both offering unique cultural insights. The Lincoln Log Cabin enhances the area's historical appeal. Visitors are most frequent in May and during the summer months of July and August, making it a great time to enjoy Toledo's romantic and picturesque surroundings.

9 tips to save on your Mattoon Airport car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for added space, a convertible for summertime fun, or an economy car to accommodate extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's usually advisable to book your MTO car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Ideally, make your reservation 1 to 3 months in advance, particularly before peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and the availability of certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might be restricted. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age requirements prior to finalizing your reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals follow a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is usually the most advantageous. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you steer clear of unexpected costs and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.