$36 Car Rental DeKalb, IL

Reasons to book a car rental in and around DeKalb

Renting a car in DeKalb, Illinois, offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for countryside explorers, family travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts, as having a vehicle allows for easy luggage management and adaptable travel plans. You can visit key attractions such as Northern Illinois University, a historic college ideal for cultural experiences, or enjoy a game at Huskie Stadium, a family-friendly entertainment facility. The Ellwood House Museum offers rich historical insights and is another must-see location.

A rental car also opens up opportunities to explore nearby destinations like Sycamore, just 4 miles away, where you can find more attractions related to Northern Illinois University and the NIU Convocation Center. Further afield, Genoa, located 12 miles from DeKalb, features the Kishwaukee Valley Heritage Museum and Durham Park, while Burlington, 14 miles away, boasts the Burlington Prairie Forest Preserve and Goebbert's Farm. Having a rental car makes it convenient to visit these locations and enjoy a diverse range of cultural and outdoor experiences, ensuring that you make the most of your trip to DeKalb and its surroundings.

Most popular car rentals in DeKalb

• Midsize: This car option is highly favored among travelers in DeKalb, accommodating up to 5 passengers and up to 3 large suitcases. It is perfect for couples and families who appreciate a balance of comfort and space. With a midsize vehicle, you’ll have the freedom to explore the countryside or cultural sites around DeKalb at your leisure, all while managing your luggage conveniently.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car is ideal for families and groups, comfortably seating 5 travelers along with the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is popular among those looking for extra space and flexibility during their travels. Renting a fullsize vehicle allows you to fully enjoy your adventure around DeKalb, ensuring everyone has ample room for their belongings.
• Compact SUV: A compact SUV is another top choice for DeKalb travelers, accommodating up to 5 passengers and up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for solo travelers, couples, or families who want a blend of comfort and utility. With a compact SUV, you can easily navigate both urban and rural roads while having the space needed for outdoor gear or shopping bags.

Top rated car suppliers in DeKalb

• Enterprise: With 1 rental location in the heart of DeKalb, Enterprise is a top choice for travelers seeking flexibility and convenience. Known for a diverse range of vehicles, the most booked options include Midsize and Fullsize cars, perfect for accommodating both luggage and passengers. Renting from Enterprise allows you to explore the attractions in and around DeKalb at your own pace, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Where to go around DeKalb

• Sycamore: Located 4 miles from DeKalb, Sycamore is a vibrant city that attracts travelers year-round, with peak visits in June to July and September. Travelers can enjoy a blend of family-friendly and cultural experiences. Key highlights include the historic Northern Illinois University, the NIU Convocation Center for entertainment, and the Ellwood House Museum for a dose of history. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the local parks and recreational areas.
• Genoa: Approximately 12 miles from DeKalb, Genoa offers a charming getaway with a focus on outdoor activities and family experiences. The best time to visit is during peak months in April and June to July. Key points of interest include the Northern Illinois University for culture, the Kishwaukee Valley Heritage Museum for history, and Durham Park, which is ideal for family outings and outdoor fun. The city’s scenic landscapes are perfect for romantic getaways.
• Burlington: Situated 14 miles from DeKalb, Burlington is known for its outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery, particularly popular in July and November to December. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Burlington Prairie Forest Preserve, a great spot for nature lovers, and Goebbert's Farm for a taste of local agriculture. The nearby national state park and lake provide ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation amidst stunning natural beauty.

10 tips to save on your DeKalb car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting specific vehicle types and features. Whether you need 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 perfect fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking in advance, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This may also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is often the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to return the car empty in those cases.
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 justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind during your trip. It’s easy to add insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek 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.

Best time to rent a car in and around DeKalb

The best value period to rent a car in and around DeKalb is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. January also offers low prices, making it a quiet time for rentals. Following this, April shows slightly low demand with average pricing, while March sees average demand and prices. However, August stands out as the most expensive month, accompanied by high demand, making it a busy time for car rentals. July and September also experience slightly high demand and prices.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	21.6°F (-5.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	24.1°F (-4.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	37.6°F (3.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
May	59.9°F (15.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
June	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	64.6°F (18.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	39.2°F (4.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	29.7°F (-1.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in DeKalb

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in DeKalb

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $36.

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