$74 Car Rental Wood River, IL

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Top Car Deals in Wood River

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Compact SUV

Chevrolet Trax
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
St Louis, Missouri, USA
Chevrolet Trax

$74

includes taxes & fees
$58 per day
found 19 hours ago
Compact SUV Chevrolet Trax

Midsize SUV

Nissan Rogue
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
St Louis, Missouri, USA
Nissan Rogue

$78

includes taxes & fees
$61 per day
found 19 hours ago
Midsize SUV Nissan Rogue

Standard SUV

Chevrolet Blazer
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
St Louis, Missouri, USA
Chevrolet Blazer

$82

includes taxes & fees
$63 per day
found 19 hours ago
Standard SUV Chevrolet Blazer

Mini Van

Chrysler Pacifica
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
Chrysler Pacifica

$86

includes taxes & fees
$68 per day
found 19 hours ago
Mini Van Chrysler Pacifica

Fullsize Recreational Vehicle

Nissan Pathfinder
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
ST. LOUIS, USA
Nissan Pathfinder

$90

includes taxes & fees
$70 per day
found 19 hours ago
Fullsize Recreational Vehicle Nissan Pathfinder

Fullsize Elite Pickup Regular Cab

Ram 2500 Big Horn
  • 6 people
  • Unlimited mileage
ST. LOUIS, USA
Ram 2500 Big Horn

$99

includes taxes & fees
$77 per day
found 3 hours ago
Fullsize Elite Pickup Regular Cab Ram 2500 Big Horn

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
ST. LOUIS, USA
Chevrolet Spark

$102

includes taxes & fees
$79 per day
found 19 hours ago
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Special

Managers Special
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
Managers Special

$111

includes taxes & fees
$87 per day
found 3 hours ago
Special Managers Special

Premium Crossover

Dodge Durango
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
Dodge Durango

$109

includes taxes & fees
$87 per day
found 3 hours ago
Premium Crossover Dodge Durango

Midsize Elite

Telsa Short Range Model 3
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
SAINT LOUIS, USA
Telsa Short Range Model 3

$116

includes taxes & fees
$92 per day
found 19 hours ago
Midsize Elite Telsa Short Range Model 3

Standard Elite Special

Ford Mustang Mach-E
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
SAINT LOUIS, USA
Ford Mustang Mach-E

$124

includes taxes & fees
$98 per day
found 19 hours ago
Standard Elite Special Ford Mustang Mach-E

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Lowest prices found within the past 19 hours. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Wood River car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Wood River

Renting a car in Wood River offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families or those traveling with luggage, as it simplifies the management of your belongings. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit nearby attractions such as The Gardens at SIUE, located 7 miles away, ideal for outdoor and family experiences. The National Great Rivers Museum, just 3 miles from Wood River, provides a cultural outing for visitors of all ages. Additionally, the Robert Wadlow Statue, 4 miles away, adds a unique cultural touch to your trip.

Exploring nearby cities is also easy with a rental car. East Alton, just 1 mile away, features all the key attractions, while Hartford and Roxana, both 2 miles from Wood River, offer more outdoor and historical experiences. Having a car allows you to create flexible travel plans, ensuring you can make the most of your sightseeing adventures. Overall, renting a car in and around Wood River enhances your visit by providing convenient access to various attractions and the freedom to explore at your leisure.

Where to stay around Wood River

  • East Alton: Located 1 mile away from Wood River, East Alton offers a vibrant atmosphere for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and family experiences. Visitors can explore the Robert Wadlow Statue and The Gardens at SIUE, both great for cultural and romantic outings. The National Great Rivers Museum also provides educational opportunities related to natural history. East Alton features various dining options, including restaurants and pubs, making it a convenient choice for your stay.
  • Hartford: Situated 2 miles from Wood River, Hartford is ideal for those interested in culture and outdoor activities. Key attractions include the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center and the Lewis and Clark Confluence Tower, which offers stunning views. The Lewis and Clark State Memorial Park is perfect for eco-friendly and family outings. With nearby wineries and breweries, Hartford also provides excellent options for food and drinks, enhancing your stay.
  • Roxana: Also located 2 miles from Wood River, Roxana is great for travelers looking for scenic and romantic experiences. Key points of interest include Burbank Park and the Wood River Refinery History Museum, which cater to culture enthusiasts. The Gardens at SIUE, a botanical garden, is another highlight for families and couples alike. Roxana's nearby wineries offer a delightful selection of beverages, making it a lovely spot for your visit.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the type of vehicle and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect fit for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is typically the best arrangement. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often comes with a surcharge, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, search for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Wood River

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Wood River

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $74.

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
$74
Our second best deal of the day
$78
Our third best deal of the day
$82
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 Wood River?
You can find cheap car rentals in Wood River from $17 a day with Enterprise's midsize 2/4 door cars. Enterprise offers options such as a midsize 2 or 4 door car starting from $17 a day, while Budget has compact 2 or 4 door cars starting from $19 a day. These companies provide good value options that still offer comfort and space for your trip. Comparing car rental deals in Wood River on Expedia can help you find a vehicle that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Wood River.
What are the best luxury car companies in Wood River?
For luxury car rental in Wood River, you can find premium options through providers like Enterprise and Alamo. Enterprise offers premium crossover vehicles starting from $26 a day, providing a sophisticated driving experience. Alamo also features premium crossover options starting from $41 a day. These luxury vehicles offer enhanced comfort, advanced features, and a stylish ride, making them ideal for business travelers or those seeking an elevated travel experience in Wood River. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Wood River.
Can I rent a car one-way in Wood River?
A one-way car rental in Wood River is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from $21 a day. Providers like Enterprise and Alamo may have flexible one-way policies. These are good options for one-way car rental in Wood River, allowing you to pick up your vehicle and drop it off at a different location, which is convenient for extended travel plans. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Wood River.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Wood River?
Wood River is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $17 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring the area and returning to your original pickup spot. Providers like Enterprise and Alamo also offer wide round-trip availability, making it easy to plan your itinerary. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Wood River.
What are the best car rentals in Wood River?
Car rentals in Wood River offer extensive vehicle variety to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact SUV
  • Midsize SUV
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, making driving effortless. Families visiting attractions often prefer SUVs or minivans for their spacious interiors and luggage capacity, while couples and solo travelers find economy or compact cars easy to navigate and fuel-efficient. Choose a vehicle based on your passenger count, luggage requirements, and planned activities. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Wood River.
What are the best car rentals in Wood River for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Wood River for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $26 a day — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to park
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $26 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
  • Compact SUV, starting from $22 a day — also fits up to 3 medium suitcases, offering a higher ride and more versatile space
These options comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you're planning longer drives, a compact SUV can provide extra comfort and capability. Payless is a provider that is popular with solo travelers. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Wood River.
What are the best car rentals in Wood River for couples?
The best car rentals in Wood River for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $17 a day — fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $22 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both options provide comfortable seating and ample trunk space for a couple without being difficult to park. For a special trip, consider a convertible, available from providers like Alamo, for scenic drives around Wood River. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Wood River.
What are the best car rentals in Wood River for families?
The best car rentals in Wood River for families are the ones with ample room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $26 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases and space for car seats
  • Fullsize SUV, starting from $40 a day — seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, offering even more space
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $41 a day — seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and mini passenger vans provide the necessary space for the whole family, car seats, and luggage, making them comfortable for trips around Wood River. Book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for the June-July peak months, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. Consider adding GPS for easier navigation if you're new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Wood River.
Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Wood River?
Wood River offers excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options from several rental companies. Avis provides hybrid vehicles starting from $17 a day and electric vehicles starting from $20 a day. Budget also offers hybrid options starting from $17 a day and electric vehicles starting from $20 a day. These eco-friendly choices are widely available on Expedia. Planning charging stops for trips beyond 200 miles is always a good practice for electric vehicles. Booking electric or hybrid cars 4-6 weeks ahead is advisable as demand can be high.
What is the best time to book a car in Wood River?
From January, prices in Wood River are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $17 a day during this period. June tends to be the busiest month, and June through July are peak months 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. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup, so you can book early and rebook if rates drop, ensuring you find a rate that fits your budget.
What are the best car companies in Wood River?
Car rentals in Wood River are available from reputable providers like Enterprise, Alamo, and Avis, offering a variety of vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Enterprise provides options such as midsize 2 or 4 door cars and fullsize 2 or 4 door cars, which are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Alamo offers midsize SUVs and compact SUVs, providing more space and stability for highways and varied terrain. Avis rounds out the choices with midsize 2 or 4 door cars and midsize SUVs. Consider a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches, or an SUV for more space and comfort for family trips. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Wood River.
What are good day trip destinations from Wood River by rental car?
Exploring the areas around Wood River by car rental opens up several excellent day trip opportunities for families, couples, and solo travelers. You can easily reach these destinations within a 1-2 hour drive, making for a comfortable outing from Wood River. When considering a car rental in Wood River for these trips, think about the space you'll need for passengers and any gear.
  • Pere Marquette State Park, Grafton, Illinois: Located just 28 miles away, this state park is perfect for nature enthusiasts. The drive takes about 30 minutes, and a midsize SUV or standard SUV offers ample space for hiking gear and comfortable travel for families.
  • Carlyle Lake, Illinois: Approximately 56 miles from Wood River, Carlyle Lake is a fantastic spot for water activities and relaxation. The drive is about 1 hour. A fullsize car or midsize SUV provides comfort for couples or families heading to the lake.
  • Rend Lake, Illinois: About 96 miles away, Rend Lake offers more outdoor recreation opportunities. Expect a drive of about 2 hours. For longer drives and more passengers, a fullsize SUV or a mini passenger van would be a great choice, ensuring everyone has space and comfort.
  • Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois: For those looking to visit a university town, Carbondale is about 111 miles from Wood River, a drive of approximately 2 hours. A comfortable midsize or fullsize car is ideal for this trip, offering a smooth ride.
When planning your day trips, consider a car rental in Wood River that offers flexible cancellation, especially if your plans might change. Always ensure your vehicle has enough space for luggage or any recreational equipment you plan to bring. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Wood River.
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 Wood River?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Wood River. 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 Wood River?
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 Wood River?
Budget car rental in Wood River can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $74. 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 Wood River?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Wood River. 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 Wood River car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Wood River?
To rent a car in Wood River, 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 Wood River car rental?
If you need to cancel your Wood River 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 Wood River 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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