Car Rental Southern Illinois University, IL

These Southern Illinois University insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 28, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental around Southern Illinois University

Renting a car around Southern Illinois University in Carbondale offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit nearby attractions such as Giant City State Park, located just 8 miles away, where you can enjoy outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery. Cedar Lake and Campground Beach, both situated 6 miles from the university, provide great opportunities for relaxation and beach experiences.

Additionally, having a car makes it convenient to navigate the city of Carbondale, home to the African American Museum of Southern Illinois and various parks. You can also explore nearby towns like Makanda and Murphysboro, each about 7 miles away, which feature attractions such as Lake Murphysboro State Park and Kinkaid Village Marina. This flexibility is particularly appealing for families and those traveling with luggage, ensuring you can manage your belongings easily and visit multiple destinations without relying on public transportation. Overall, a rental car enhances your travel experience, allowing you to make the most of your time in Southern Illinois.

Most popular car rental near Southern Illinois University

• Midsize SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases—ideal for families, couples, or small groups. Renting a midsize SUV near Southern Illinois University offers you the flexibility to explore the area comfortably while managing your luggage with ease. This option provides ample space and a smooth driving experience, making it a favorite among travelers looking to enjoy their trip at their own pace.

Top rated car suppliers near Southern Illinois University

• Enterprise: Enterprise is the most popular car rental supplier near Southern Illinois University, with a location just 1 mile away. Travelers appreciate its reliable service and the convenience of managing their bookings. The most frequently booked vehicles with Enterprise are Midsize and Standard options, catering to various needs. Customers often highlight the flexibility and ease of renting from this supplier, making it an excellent choice for exploring the area at your own pace.

Where to stay near Southern Illinois University

• Carbondale: Staying in Carbondale puts you right at the heart of Southern Illinois University, where you can enjoy the vibrant college atmosphere. The city offers a range of accommodations and is close to attractions like the African American Museum of Southern Illinois and the stunning Giant City State Park, perfect for outdoor adventures. With various restaurants and wineries nearby, you can indulge in local cuisine and drinks after a day of exploring.
• Makanda: Located 7 miles from Southern Illinois University, Makanda is ideal for those seeking outdoor experiences. With access to the scenic Cedar Lake and the popular Giant City State Park, it's a great choice for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The city also features cozy accommodations and local dining options, including wineries, making it a delightful spot for a relaxing getaway.
• Cobden: Situated 13 miles from Southern Illinois University, Cobden offers a charming environment for visitors. The city is close to the beautiful Giant City State Park and Cedar Lake, both of which provide excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. Cobden’s welcoming atmosphere is further enhanced by nearby restaurants and wineries, perfect for unwinding after a day spent enjoying the area's natural beauty.

10 tips to save on your car rental around Southern Illinois University

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the perfect match for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel date. Booking in advance typically allows you to lock in lower rates and ensures better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are usually more affordable to rent and simpler to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. Renters over 70 years old may also face similar restrictions. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can also be convenient. Just remember to return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the extra cost may be justified for the convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Rental car insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and offers peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, look for rental options that include unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
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 around Southern Illinois University

The best time to rent a car around Southern Illinois University is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. January also offers good value, making it a quiet time for rentals. Moving into spring, March and April see average to slightly high demand, which can lead to moderate pricing. However, July is the peak season for car rentals, with prices typically high and demand remaining steady during the summer months. June through August generally experience increased demand and pricing.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	33.4°F (0.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	36.7°F (2.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	47.5°F (8.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	75.9°F (24.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	76.8°F (24.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	70.9°F (21.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	59.2°F (15.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	46.6°F (8.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	39.0°F (3.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average