Car Rental at Midway Intl. Airport (MDW) from $52

Reasons to book a car rental at Chicago International Airport

Renting a car at Chicago Midway International Airport is an excellent choice for travelers seeking freedom and flexibility during their visit. Whether you are a business traveler looking to reach McCormick Place, located 8 miles away, or a family explorer eager to discover the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, just 8 miles from the airport, having a rental car allows you to manage your luggage easily and create a travel itinerary that suits your needs. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the convenience of visiting nearby destinations like Oak Park, 7 miles away, where you can explore the Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District and the Ernest Hemingway Museum and House. Additionally, discovering the vibrant Near West Side neighborhood, also 7 miles from the airport, offers cultural experiences like the University of Illinois Chicago and Michigan Avenue. With a rental car, you can navigate the urban landscape of Chicago and its surrounding areas at your own pace, enhancing your journey whether you're interested in art, scenery, or family activities. Enjoy the flexibility to explore everything this dynamic region has to offer without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals near Chicago International Airport

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice among travelers at Chicago airport, accommodating up to 5 individuals with ample space for 3 large suitcases. This makes it an ideal option for families, couples, or small groups looking for comfort and versatility during their trip. With its spacious interior, you can enjoy the freedom to explore the attractions around Chicago at your own pace.
• Standard SUV: Also fitting 5 travelers, the Standard SUV can handle up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for couples, families, or groups who want a balance of space and convenience. Renting a Standard SUV allows you to navigate the bustling city and its surrounding areas while providing the flexibility to manage your luggage with ease.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is designed to cater to larger groups or families, accommodating up to 5 travelers with the capacity for 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for those who value space without sacrificing comfort. Renting a Fullsize vehicle from Chicago airport allows you to travel comfortably and conveniently, ensuring that everyone and their belongings fit without hassle.

Top rated car suppliers near Chicago International Airport

• Budget: With 3 rental locations, Budget is a popular choice among travelers at Chicago airport, being conveniently located only 0.7 miles away. This supplier is well-known for providing a diverse selection of vehicles, with the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV being the most booked options. Budget's flexible rental policies make it easy for you to explore the area around Chicago at your own pace.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo features a single rental location situated just 0.6 miles away from Chicago airport, making it easily accessible for travelers. Known for its customer-friendly service, this supplier offers popular vehicle choices like the Midsize SUV and Premium SUV. Alamo is ideal for those looking for a straightforward rental experience with great vehicle options for your journey.
• Hertz: Hertz operates one rental location only 0.6 miles from Chicago airport, providing travelers with quick access to their rental cars. This supplier is recognized for its reliable service and a solid selection of vehicles, including the Midsize SUV and Fullsize options. Hertz is a great choice for those wanting a dependable rental experience in the Chicago area.

Where to go near Chicago International Airport

• Oak Park: Located 7 miles from Chicago, IL, Oak Park is a charming city known for its rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District, a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. The Ernest Hemingway Museum and House offers insights into the life of the famous author. With family-friendly activities and an array of shopping areas, Oak Park is a great spot for family, outdoor, and city experiences, especially during peak months of April and June to July.
• Near West Side: This vibrant neighborhood is also 7 miles away from Chicago, IL and offers a blend of culture and city life. Key attractions include the University of Illinois Chicago, which provides a historic backdrop for visitors. Michigan Avenue is perfect for those looking to indulge in the urban shopping experience. The Credit Union 1 Arena is a popular venue for entertainment, making the Near West Side a fantastic destination for family, outdoor, and city experiences, particularly in January and June to July.
• Lyons: Situated 5 miles from Chicago, IL, Lyons is a city that balances family-friendly activities with urban attractions. Visitors can marvel at the Willis Tower, a notable skyscraper, or enjoy events at the Wintrust Arena. The area features numerous urban parks and sports facilities, making it suitable for outdoor activities. The best times to visit Lyons are April and June to July, as the visitor numbers peak during these months, providing a lively atmosphere for travelers.

9 tips to save on your Chicago International Airport car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It’s generally advisable to make your MDW car rental reservation as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Ideally, aim to book 1-3 months in advance, particularly before peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and the availability of certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might be limited. This can also apply to renters over 70 years of age. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are typically less expensive 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 implement a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid incurring extra charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well; 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, and debit cards might not be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend a lot of time driving, seek out 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 Chicago International Airport

The best time to rent a car from Chicago Airport is January, when both prices and demand are slightly low, providing great value. February follows closely, maintaining low demand and pricing. Moving into March and April, prices remain average while demand slightly dips. However, July emerges as the most expensive month, with high demand and rental rates peaking. June through August also experience elevated prices and demand levels, making them less ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	25.7°F (-3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	27.0°F (-2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	37.0°F (2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	33.1°F (0.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low