Car Rental at Gary - Chicago Intl. Airport (GYY)

Reasons to book a car rental at Gary International Airport

Renting a car at Gary Airport is an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore the surrounding attractions at their own pace. Whether you are a road trip enthusiast, a family on vacation, or a business traveler, having a vehicle provides the freedom and flexibility needed for a smooth journey. With easy luggage management and the ability to adjust your travel plans, you can focus on enjoying your trip rather than navigating public transportation.

With a rental car, you can conveniently visit notable destinations such as the University of Chicago and the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, both located just 15 miles away. If you prefer to explore closer, Purdue University Northwest is only 4 miles from the airport. Additionally, cities like Hammond and Merrillville, 5 and 11 miles away respectively, offer unique experiences like the Hammond Civic Center and Lake County Fairgrounds. For nature lovers, Ogden Dunes, 11 miles away, features Indiana Dunes National Park, providing a perfect blend of urban and natural attractions. A rental car ensures you can maximize your time and enjoy everything the area has to offer.

Most popular car rentals near Gary International Airport

• Midsize SUV: A popular choice at Gary airport, the midsize SUV comfortably accommodates 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases. This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking to enjoy the freedom of the road. With its spacious interior, you’ll have plenty of room for both passengers and luggage, making it ideal for those who want to explore the attractions near Gary airport at a leisurely pace.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is another highly booked choice, fitting 5 travelers with the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent option for families or groups who need a bit more space for their belongings. Renting a fullsize vehicle allows for flexible travel plans, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a comfortable ride while exploring the area around Gary airport.
• Economy: For those traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small family, the economy car offers a practical solution. It fits up to 5 travelers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for shorter trips or light packing. This option is great for those looking to manage their budget while still having the flexibility to explore the urban experiences around Gary airport.

Top rated car suppliers near Gary International Airport

• Hertz: Hertz operates one rental location, situated 6 miles away from Gary airport. Known for its reliable service, Hertz offers a selection of vehicles that include popular Midsize and Fullsize options. This supplier is a great choice for travelers looking for comfort and convenience during their journey.
• Enterprise: With two rental locations, the nearest being just 4 miles from Gary airport, Enterprise stands out for its customer-friendly approach. Travelers frequently book Midsize SUVs and Mini Vans through this supplier, making it an excellent option for families or groups seeking spacious vehicles for their adventures.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar Rent A Car features one rental location, 6 miles away from Gary airport. This supplier is favored for its selection of Midsize SUVs and Compact vehicles, catering to a range of travel needs. With Dollar, you can enjoy a hassle-free rental experience as you explore the area.

Where to go near Gary International Airport

• Hammond: Located 5 miles away from Gary, Hammond is a vibrant city that offers a mix of experiences for travelers. Visitors can enjoy the local attractions such as Purdue University Northwest, perfect for those interested in a modern college environment, and the Hammond Civic Center, which serves as an entertainment facility suitable for family outings. Hammond also features a casino and various recreational areas, making it a great spot for both romance and family experiences. The peak visitor months are March and June to July, with lower numbers from November to January.
• Ogden Dunes: Situated 11 miles from Gary, Ogden Dunes is a picturesque neighborhood ideal for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The area is known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities, with attractions like the Indiana Dunes National Park, which offers excellent opportunities for hiking and exploration. Ogden Dunes Beach provides a perfect spot for relaxation, while Founders' Square Park adds a charming urban touch. Visitor numbers peak during the summer months of June to August, making it a popular choice for beach vacations.
• Merrillville: Also 11 miles from Gary, Merrillville is a bustling city that attracts visitors year-round. Known for its outdoor activities and scenic spots, travelers can explore the Indiana Dunes National Park for adventure or visit the Lake County Fairgrounds for family-friendly events. Merrillville is home to educational institutions like Indiana University Northwest, which enriches the local culture. The city sees peak visitor numbers in April and June to July, while January to November tends to be quieter.

9 tips to save on your Gary International Airport car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's generally advisable to reserve your GYY car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Aim to finalize your booking 1-3 months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before 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 simpler to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you're required to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the best choice. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards are not always permitted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and offers peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, look for 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 Gary International Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Gary Airport is April, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This makes it an ideal time for budget-conscious travelers. January and February also offer lower prices and demand, making them good alternatives. However, July is the most expensive month, with high demand as well. June and August are similarly busy and pricier, which may not be as appealing for those looking to save.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	25.7°F (-3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	27.3°F (-2.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	47.5°F (8.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
May	59.0°F (15.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	68.5°F (20.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	66.7°F (19.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	42.1°F (5.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	32.9°F (0.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average