$36 Car Rental Merrillville, IN

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Merrillville

Renting a car in Merrillville offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Lake County Fairgrounds, located just 5 miles away, and the Shrine of the Christ's Passion, which is 8 miles from Merrillville. For those interested in arts and culture, the South Shore Arts - Crown Point Branch is a short 4-mile drive. Additionally, you can venture to nearby cities like Crown Point, only 4 miles away, where you can experience these attractions, or take a trip to Hammond, located 13 miles from Merrillville, to enjoy the Hammond Marina Beach and the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. Schererville is also within reach, just 6 miles away, featuring Centennial Park and the same cultural sites. Renting a car simplifies luggage management and allows for spontaneous detours, making it ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking adventure. With a car, you can easily create your own itinerary and discover the scenic beauty of the region without the constraints of public transport.

Most popular car rentals in Merrillville

• Mini: The Mini is a top choice for travelers in Merrillville, accommodating up to 4 travelers with space for 2 small suitcases. This compact vehicle is perfect for solo adventurers or couples looking to explore the area with ease. Its size makes it easy to navigate through city streets and find parking, allowing for a hassle-free experience while enjoying the local attractions.
• Economy: The Economy car option is designed for flexibility, accommodating up to 5 travelers and allowing for 2 medium suitcases. This makes it a great fit for solo travelers, couples, or small families who want to experience Merrillville without the burden of excess luggage. With its efficient fuel economy, this option is not only budget-friendly but also practical for those planning to drive around town.
• Midsize: If you're traveling with a group or family, the Midsize car is an excellent choice. It accommodates up to 5 travelers and provides space for 3 large suitcases, ensuring that everyone can travel comfortably. Ideal for couples and families, this option offers a balance of space and maneuverability, making it suitable for both short trips and longer drives around Merrillville.

Top rated car suppliers in Merrillville

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a popular choice among travelers in Merrillville, boasting 2 rental locations in the area. Customers appreciate the range of vehicles available, particularly the Midsize and Mini Van options, which cater well to families and groups. Known for excellent customer service and flexibility, Enterprise makes the rental experience smooth and enjoyable. With a strong reputation for well-maintained vehicles, it is an excellent option for those looking to explore the region comfortably.
• Budget: Budget operates 1 rental location in Merrillville, providing convenient options for travelers seeking reliable transportation. The most booked vehicles from Budget include Standard SUVs and Midsize SUVs, which are ideal for both individuals and families planning to explore the area. Known for competitive pricing, Budget offers an economical choice for those looking to maximize value during their trip while enjoying a comfortable driving experience.
• Hertz: With 2 rental locations in Merrillville, Hertz is another top supplier favored by visitors. The company is well-regarded for its diverse vehicle selection, with Midsize and Economy cars being the most popular choices among customers. Hertz is recognized for its efficient service, allowing travelers to get on the road quickly. This makes it a great option for tourists who want to make the most of their time exploring the attractions around Merrillville.

Where to stay around Merrillville

• Hammond: Located 13 miles from Merrillville, Hammond offers a vibrant city experience perfect for romantic getaways or family trips. Enjoy the recreational areas and arena entertainment facilities. Key attractions include Hammond Marina Beach for outdoor adventures, the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry for cultural enrichment, and Centennial Park, ideal for family outings. Dining options abound with various restaurants and local wineries, making Hammond a delightful stop for your travels.
• Portage: Situated 12 miles from Merrillville, Portage is a scenic city known for its outdoor adventures. Ideal for nature lovers, visitors can explore the national and dune parks nearby. Key highlights include Portage Lakefront Beach, Ogden Dunes Beach, and West Beach, all perfect for a beach vacation. The area also features playgrounds and educational venues, alongside a selection of restaurants and wineries to satisfy your culinary cravings.
• Valparaiso: Found 14 miles from Merrillville, Valparaiso is another great option for those seeking scenery and outdoor activities. The city is home to the historic Memorial Opera House and the beautiful Taltree Arboretum and Gardens, making it suitable for family outings and culture seekers. Don’t miss Indiana Dunes National Park, known for its breathtaking landscapes and adventures. Valparaiso’s array of dining options and wineries adds to its charm, making it a worthwhile visit.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Merrillville

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the perfect fit for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a good balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional costs.
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 Merrillville

The best time to rent a car in and around Merrillville is January and February, when prices and demand are both slightly low. These months offer great value for renters. March sees a rise in demand and average pricing, while April and May maintain moderate levels. However, July tends to be the most expensive month due to high demand, making it a busier time for rentals. June and August also experience slightly high prices and demand, creating a more hectic rental environment.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	25.3°F (-3.7°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	38.8°F (3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
April	48.7°F (9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	60.6°F (15.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	73.6°F (23.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.3°F (22.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
October	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	41.7°F (5.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Merrillville

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Merrillville

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

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