$26 Car Rental River Forest, IL

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Top Car Deals in River Forest

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What you need to know for your River Forest car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around River Forest

Renting a car in River Forest, Illinois, offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit local attractions such as the Ernest Hemingway Museum and House, located just 1 mile away, or venture a bit further to iconic sites like Willis Tower and Merchandise Mart, both situated 9 miles from River Forest. This convenience is especially beneficial for families or travelers seeking city-themed and outdoor experiences, allowing you to manage your luggage effortlessly and create flexible travel plans. Additionally, you can easily explore neighboring cities like Forest Park, just 1 mile away, and Oak Park, 2 miles away, where you can find more cultural and historical sites. Whether you want to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Chicago, featuring destinations like Michigan Avenue and Millennium Park, or simply enjoy a scenic drive through the surrounding area, having a rental car ensures you can maximize your visit to River Forest and its surroundings without the constraints of public transportation.

Where to stay around River Forest

  • Oak Park: Located 2 miles from River Forest, Oak Park offers a rich cultural experience with attractions such as the Ernest Hemingway Museum and House, and Unity Temple. The city is known for its family-friendly activities, urban parks, and shopping areas. Enjoy various dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a perfect spot for a comfortable stay while exploring the nearby attractions.
  • Forest Park: Just 1 mile away from River Forest, Forest Park is a vibrant destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Key points of interest include the historic Merchandise Mart and the renowned Willis Tower. With a mix of shopping areas, theaters, and an inviting urban park, Forest Park provides plenty of entertainment and dining options to enhance your stay.
  • Chicago: A short distance from River Forest, the bustling metropolis of Chicago offers an array of attractions perfect for a city-themed vacation. Visit iconic places like Millennium Park and Navy Pier, where you can enjoy shopping, arena entertainment, and outdoor activities. With a rich selection of restaurants and bars nearby, Chicago serves as an excellent base for your travel adventures.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars 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 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also impact renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, 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 be worth the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. 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 simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in River Forest

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in River Forest

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $26.

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.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$26
 
Our second best deal of the day
$37
 
Our third best deal of the day
$49
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in River Forest?
You can find cheap car rentals in River Forest from $10 a day with Routes's midsize 2/4 door cars. Sixt offers standard 2 or 4 door cars starting from $14 a day and midsize SUVs starting from $15 a day. Enterprise also provides competitive car rental deals in River Forest, with midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $14 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental in River Forest that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in River Forest.
What are the best luxury car companies in River Forest?
For luxury car rental in River Forest, you can find premium options through providers like Sixt and Alamo Rent A Car. Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars starting from $22 a day and midsize elite SUVs starting from $23 a day. Alamo Rent A Car also provides premium crossover vehicles starting from $26 a day. These luxury rentals offer enhanced comfort and features for a more sophisticated travel experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in River Forest.
Can I rent a car one-way in River Forest?
Yes, a one-way car rental in River Forest is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $12 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise may have flexible one-way policies, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in River Forest and drop it off at a different location. These are good options for one-way car rental in River Forest. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in River Forest.
Can I rent a car round-trip in River Forest?
Yes, River Forest is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $10 a day. Picking up and dropping off your car at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring areas near River Forest and returning to the same spot. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise also offer wide round-trip availability for car rental in River Forest. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in River Forest.
What are the best car rentals in River Forest?
Car rentals in River Forest offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact SUV
Most come with automatic transmission standard. Families visiting attractions prefer SUVs or minivans for space; couples and solo travelers do fine with economy or compact cars. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and budget. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in River Forest.

What are the best car rentals in River Forest for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in River Forest for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $16 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $16 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you're planning longer drives, consider sizing up to a compact SUV for extra highway comfort. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in River Forest.

What are the best car rentals in River Forest for couples?
The best car rentals in River Forest for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $15 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $15 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in River Forest.

What are the best car rentals in River Forest for families?
The best car rentals in River Forest for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $15 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $29 a day—seats up to 9 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and minivans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for car rental for families in River Forest. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during the July peak, and consider adding GPS if you're new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in River Forest.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in River Forest?
Yes, River Forest has excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options. Sixt offers hybrid vehicles starting from $10 a day and electric vehicles starting from $17 a day. Avis also provides electric vehicles starting from $10 a day and hybrid options starting from $10 a day. Multiple rental companies in River Forest carry electric and hybrid cars, widely available on Expedia. These vehicles can offer fuel savings, as charging costs less than equivalent gas cars. Book electric vehicles 4-6 weeks ahead as demand is high.
What is the best time to book a car in River Forest?
From January, prices in River Forest are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $14 a day during this period. July tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing for your car rental in River Forest. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in River Forest?
Car rental suppliers in River Forest include Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has standard 2 or 4 door cars starting from $14 a day and midsize SUVs starting from $15 a day that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Enterprise offers midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $14 a day and fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $15 a day, providing more space and stability for highways. Alamo Rent A Car rounds out the choices with midsize SUVs starting from $14 a day and fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $15 a day. Choose a class that matches your travel plans, whether it's for city maneuvering or longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in River Forest.
What are good day trip destinations from River Forest by rental car?
Chicago offers many excellent day trip destinations from River Forest, easily accessible with a car rental. You can explore iconic attractions such as:
  • The United Center, approximately 9 miles away
  • Wrigley Field, about 11 miles from River Forest
  • Soldier Field, located around 13 miles away
  • The Willis Tower Skydeck and The Ledge, for breathtaking city views
  • The Chicago Architecture River Cruise, offering unique perspectives of the city's famous buildings
For these city excursions, a midsize car or a fullsize car provides comfortable travel, with options like a midsize 2 or 4 door starting from $15 a day and a fullsize 2 or 4 door starting from $16 a day. Families or small groups might prefer a midsize SUV, available from $15 a day, for extra space and comfort, making your car rental in River Forest perfect for exploring the greater Chicago area. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in River Forest.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in River Forest?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in River Forest. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in River Forest?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in River Forest?
Budget car rental in River Forest can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $26. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in River Forest?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in River Forest. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your River Forest car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in River Forest?
To rent a car in River Forest, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my River Forest car rental?
If you need to cancel your River Forest car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in River Forest with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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