$43 Car Rental Waukegan, IL

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Waukegan

Renting a car in Waukegan offers an excellent opportunity for suburban explorers, families, and adventurers to discover the area at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it perfect for those seeking both entertainment and outdoor experiences. Many key attractions are within a short drive, such as Six Flags Great America and Illinois Beach State Park, both located just 4 miles away. For a taste of local culture, Lake Forest College is 8 miles from Waukegan, providing a unique city experience.

Additionally, having a rental car allows you to explore nearby destinations like Kenosha, 15 miles away, where you can visit Carthage College and enjoy local events. Libertyville, located 8 miles from Waukegan, features MainStreet Libertyville and Lake County Fairgrounds, while Round Lake Beach, 12 miles away, offers attractions like the Volo Auto Museum. With the freedom to travel comfortably, a rental car is a convenient choice for anyone looking to make the most of their time in and around Waukegan.

Most popular car rentals in Waukegan

• Midsize SUV: This is a popular choice for families, couples, or small groups, as it comfortably fits 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases. Its spacious interior makes it ideal for those looking to explore Waukegan and its surroundings with ease. Whether you're embarking on a day trip or a weekend getaway, a midsize SUV offers the flexibility and comfort you need for your adventure.
• Mini Van: Perfect for larger families or groups, the mini van accommodates up to 8 travelers and has space for up to 6 large suitcases. This option is especially appealing for those planning to travel together, allowing for a shared experience while managing luggage effortlessly. Renting a mini van in Waukegan ensures that everyone can enjoy the journey without feeling cramped.
• Standard SUV: A standard SUV is an excellent choice for couples, families, or smaller groups, providing room for 5 travelers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle strikes a balance between space and maneuverability, making it suitable for both city driving and outdoor explorations. If you're looking for a reliable option that combines comfort and practicality, the standard SUV is a great fit for your Waukegan trip.

Top rated car suppliers in Waukegan

• Enterprise: Enterprise is the most popular car rental supplier in Waukegan, known for its excellent customer service and flexible rental options. With one rental location in the area, travelers frequently choose Enterprise for its reliable vehicles, including the Midsize SUV and Mini Van. Customers appreciate the helpful staff and efficient check-in process, making it a top choice for those exploring Waukegan and surrounding attractions at their own pace.

Where to go around Waukegan

• Kenosha: Located 15 miles away from Waukegan, Kenosha is ideal for those seeking outdoor activities, scenic views, and romantic experiences. Popular attractions include the beautiful lake and beach, along with Carthage College, which offers a glimpse into local culture. The Bristol Renaissance Faire is great for family-friendly fun, while the University of Wisconsin-Parkside provides a modern educational atmosphere. The peak visitor months of April and June to July ensure a vibrant atmosphere.
• Libertyville: Just 8 miles from Waukegan, Libertyville is perfect for family outings, city exploration, and outdoor adventures. Key highlights include the thrilling Six Flags Great America theme park, MainStreet Libertyville for shopping and dining, and the Lake County Fairgrounds, which hosts various events. The best times to visit are during June to July and September, when the town buzzes with activity and events.
• Round Lake Beach: This village is situated 12 miles from Waukegan and offers a mix of family-friendly attractions and outdoor experiences. Visitors can enjoy the Volo Auto Museum, which showcases fascinating transportation history, or spend time at the Lake County Fairgrounds for various outdoor events. Six Flags Great America also spans both Libertyville and Round Lake Beach, making it a popular choice. Peak visitor times include March to April and July, contributing to a lively atmosphere for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

10 tips to save on your Waukegan car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for enjoyable summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
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 in advance, you are likely to secure better rates and have improved availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a great compromise between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals enforce a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling arrangements, 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 can make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can shield you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Waukegan

The best value period to rent a car in and around Waukegan is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand remains moderately low. April also offers a good opportunity with slightly low prices, though demand picks up. As summer approaches, July becomes the most expensive month with moderately high demand. August continues this trend with slightly high prices, making it one of the busiest times to rent a vehicle in the area.

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	Moderately High	Slightly High
April	44.2°F (6.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly Low
May	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	65.1°F (18.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
August	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	65.1°F (18.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
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	Slightly High
December	31.3°F (-0.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Waukegan

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Waukegan

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $43.

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