Car Rental at Waukegan Regional Airport (UGN)

Reasons to book a car rental at Waukegan Airport

Renting a car at Waukegan Airport (UGN) is a practical choice for travelers looking to explore the area at their own pace. With the convenience of easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, a rental car allows you to visit various attractions nearby. For families or groups, a rental vehicle offers ample space and comfort while enjoying the sights. You can venture to Six Flags Great America, located just 5 miles away, for a day of fun and adventure. If you're in the mood for a relaxing day outdoors, Illinois Beach State Park is only 3 miles from the airport, providing beautiful beach experiences. Waukegan Harbor is another nearby gem, situated 4 miles away, perfect for scenic views and leisurely strolls. Additionally, you can explore the charming city of Gurnee, 4 miles away, or visit Zion, just 3 miles from the airport, both featuring parks and nature preserves. Renting a car gives you the freedom to tailor your itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your trip to Waukegan and its surrounding attractions.

Most popular car rentals near Waukegan Airport

• Compact: The Compact option is a favorite among travelers, accommodating up to 5 individuals with space for 3 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal choice for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking to explore the Waukegan area. Its size provides easy maneuverability in urban settings while still offering enough room for luggage, making it a practical and efficient choice for your trip.
• Economy: The Economy car type is another popular selection, also accommodating 5 travelers but with room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or families who prioritize budget-friendly choices without sacrificing comfort. Its compact nature makes it easy to navigate through city streets, allowing you to enjoy the flexibility of exploring the Waukegan region at your leisure.
• Standard SUV: For those needing a bit more space, the Standard SUV is an excellent option. This vehicle can comfortably carry up to 5 travelers and has capacity for 2 medium suitcases. It's particularly well-suited for couples, families, or groups who desire extra room for passengers and luggage. The larger size of the Standard SUV provides a comfortable ride, making it ideal for those planning to travel with more gear or looking for a versatile vehicle during their stay around Waukegan airport.

Top rated car suppliers near Waukegan Airport

• Budget: Budget provides a reliable car rental option with one location situated 5 miles away from Waukegan airport. This supplier is particularly popular for its Midsize SUV and Standard SUV offerings, making it a great choice for travelers seeking comfortable and spacious vehicles. With Budget, you can enjoy the freedom to explore the surrounding attractions at your own pace.
• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out with two rental locations, the nearest being just 2 miles away from Waukegan airport. Known for excellent customer service, Enterprise offers a diverse selection of vehicles, including Midsize SUVs and Mini Vans, which are popular among families and groups. Their convenient proximity to the airport enhances the overall rental experience, allowing for easy access and quick pickups.
• Avis: Avis offers another solid option with a rental location located 5 miles from Waukegan airport. Similar to Budget, Avis is favored for its Midsize SUV and Standard SUV rentals, catering to those who appreciate spaciousness and comfort. With Avis, you can expect a straightforward rental process, giving you the flexibility to manage your travel plans seamlessly.

Where to stay near Waukegan Airport

• Gurnee: Located 4 miles from Waukegan, Gurnee is a vibrant city known for its family-friendly atmosphere and entertainment options. Visitors can enjoy attractions like the renowned Six Flags Great America theme park and the sprawling Illinois Beach State Park, perfect for outdoor relaxation. Gurnee also features a shopping center and a water park, making it an excellent choice for families. With diverse dining options and a winery nearby, you can savor local flavors after a day of adventure.
• Waukegan: As the city where Waukegan Regional Airport is located, Waukegan offers a mix of outdoor and entertainment experiences. Within close proximity, you can explore Waukegan Harbor for scenic views or visit the thrilling Six Flags Great America theme park. For a more relaxed day, Illinois Beach State Park provides a beautiful spot for beach-goers. This city also boasts various restaurants and sweet treat shops, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to stay.
• Kenosha: Situated 12 miles from Waukegan, Kenosha is ideal for travelers seeking outdoor and scenic experiences. Explore the picturesque lakes and beaches, or visit the Bristol Renaissance Faire for a unique cultural experience. The Kenosha Public Museum and Civil War Museum offer educational insights for those interested in history. With a selection of restaurants and breweries, Kenosha provides a charming atmosphere to unwind after a day of exploration.

9 tips to save on your Airport car rental near Waukegan

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by specifying vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car to accommodate 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: To secure lower rates and a wider selection, it's generally advisable to book your UGN car rental as early as possible. Aiming to finalize your booking 1-3 months in advance is especially beneficial during peak seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—could have limited availability. This may also apply to renters over the age of 70. 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 more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals provide a good balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
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 often the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in that scenario.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits, as debit cards are not always accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance while booking through Expedia is simple.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend significant time on the road, 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 Waukegan Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Waukegan Airport is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. February follows closely, maintaining similar conditions. For those looking for shoulder periods, September presents slightly low prices and moderate demand, while April through May shows average pricing and demand. Conversely, July is the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand, making it a busy time for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	23.7°F (-4.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	25.2°F (-3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	35.8°F (2.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
April	44.2°F (6.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	65.1°F (18.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
September	65.1°F (18.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
October	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	31.3°F (-0.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average