$36 Car Rental Lake Forest, IL

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Lake Forest

Renting a car in Lake Forest offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families and those seeking outdoor experiences. You're just a short drive from popular destinations such as Prairie Wolf Dog Park and the Chicago Botanic Garden, located 8 miles away, perfect for family outings and romantic strolls. For thrill-seekers, Six Flags Great America is only 9 miles from Lake Forest, providing exciting entertainment options. Additionally, a rental car allows you to explore nearby cities like Lake Bluff, which is just 1 mile away, or Highwood, located 4 miles away, both offering their own unique attractions. Venturing into Chicago, the vibrant metropolis with famous sites like Michigan Avenue and Millennium Park, is also convenient with a rental car. This flexibility ensures you can make the most of your visit to Lake Forest and its surroundings, whether you are traveling solo, with family, or seeking outdoor adventures.

Where to stay around Lake Forest

• Lake Forest: A charming city within the Chicago metropolis, Lake Forest offers a family-friendly atmosphere with easy access to urban parks and local landmarks. It is an ideal base for exploring the nearby attractions of Chicago, such as Millennium Park and Navy Pier. With a variety of dining options nearby, you can enjoy both casual and upscale meals after a day of outdoor activities.
• Ivanhoe: Located 10 miles from Lake Forest, Ivanhoe is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. This neighborhood is home to golf courses and urban parks, making it a great spot for leisure activities. Don’t miss attractions like Six Flags Great America and the Volo Auto Museum, both suitable for family vacations. Ivanhoe also features a selection of restaurants and an alcohol distillery for a relaxing evening.
• Sylvan Lake: Situated 11 miles from Lake Forest, Sylvan Lake is a quaint village with a focus on outdoor recreation and family experiences. With nearby urban parks and historic sites, it provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to unwind. Key attractions include Six Flags Great America and the Lake County Fairgrounds, ensuring fun for everyone. After a day of adventure, indulge in local restaurants or sweet treats available in the area.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Lake Forest

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary with demand, so it's wise to secure your reservation well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance typically allows you to access lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is usually the most cost-effective option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen circumstances during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a simple process when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, search for rentals 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 Lake Forest

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Lake Forest

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

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