Illinois Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Illinois

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What you need to know for your Illinois car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Illinois

Renting a car in Illinois is an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore the state at their own pace. With a rental car, you have the freedom to visit key attractions like Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park in Chicago, all easily accessible when you can set your own itinerary. This flexibility allows you to manage your luggage conveniently and adapt your travel plans to your interests. Whether you're seeking vibrant city experiences or outdoor adventures, having a rental car enhances your trip significantly. You can easily venture to Downtown Chicago for attractions such as the Field Museum of Natural History or travel to Galena to see the historic Belvedere Mansion and Grant Park. The scenic beauty of Illinois is best enjoyed with the freedom of your own vehicle, allowing you to take in the landscape and explore hidden gems along the way. For families or those seeking a scenic experience, renting a car provides the convenience and comfort needed for a memorable journey through Illinois.

Most popular car rentals in Illinois

  • Midsize SUV: This vehicle is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travelers along with 3 large suitcases. Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, a midsize SUV provides the spaciousness and comfort needed for your travels in Illinois. With ample room for luggage and passengers, it offers the flexibility to explore the state at your own pace.
  • Standard SUV: A standard SUV is another great option, also seating 5 travelers but with the capacity for up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is suitable for couples, families, or groups looking for a reliable and roomy choice. The standard SUV combines convenience and comfort, making it a popular pick for navigating Illinois.
  • Fullsize: The fullsize car option can accommodate 5 travelers with the flexibility of fitting either 3 large suitcases or up to 5 medium suitcases. This makes it a fantastic choice for families or larger groups that need extra space for their belongings. With a fullsize vehicle, you'll have the comfort and capacity to enjoy your journey through Illinois without worrying about luggage space.

Where to stay in Illinois

  • Chicago: A bustling metropolis, Chicago is perfect for family, outdoor, and city-themed experiences. Key attractions include the vibrant shopping area along Michigan Avenue, the entertainment at Navy Pier, and the scenic beauty of Millennium Park. With numerous restaurants and wineries nearby, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy after exploring the local urban parks and stadiums. This city is ideal for a lively vacation atmosphere.
  • Galena: Known for its outdoor sports and adventure experiences, Galena offers a unique charm with its historic sites. Explore the Belvedere Mansion and Grant Home for a taste of local culture, or enjoy recreational activities at the national state park and nearby lakes. With options for golfing and skiing, this area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to unwind at local breweries and wineries.
  • Springfield: As the capital of Illinois, Springfield is rich in history and ideal for family and outdoor adventures. Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum for a cultural experience, and enjoy the fun at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. The local lakes and national state parks offer great opportunities for outdoor activities. Nearby wineries and breweries add to the experience, making it a great destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Illinois

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to find the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, making it wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to lock in lower prices and enjoy better availability, especially 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 strike a good balance between cost, 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 premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you 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 cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most 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 if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 in Illinois

The best value period to rent a car in Illinois is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This trend continues into early March with average prices and low demand, making it a good time to consider a rental. As spring approaches, April and May see average prices and demand levels. However, from June through August, prices tend to rise, accompanied by slightly high demand, especially in July, which is typically the most expensive month for rentals.

Find Illinois Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Illinois car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Illinois, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Illinois offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Illinois car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Illinois to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Illinois airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Illinois rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Illinois airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Illinois car reservation?
We know that plans change unexpectedly. That's why many prepaid bookings allow for a full refund if you cancel a minimum of six hours before the scheduled collection time. Your rental policy should include all the info you need. If you can't see the answer there, our Customer Service Portal is always available.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Illinois with Expedia?
Whatever sort of wheels you're searching for, Expedia will help you score the best deal. Compare the offers from leading rental suppliers and select the option that's perfect for you. Want to drive away with even more in your wallet? Bundle your Illinois car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Illinois?
If you're aged 21 and over, you can rent a car in Illinois. Keep in mind that rental suppliers will charge young drivers an additional fee, which helps cover the higher damage risk involved. Also, young drivers often aren't permitted to rent larger or luxury models of cars. Check the terms and conditions before you book to avoid any problems during pickup.
What do you need to rent a car in Illinois?
Before you can get behind the wheel in Illinois, you'll need a driver's license and a credit card that matches the name on your license. If you don't take out the company's insurance plan, you may also have to show proof of your own coverage. Requirements can vary, so understand the policy terms and conditions before you select a rental supplier.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Illinois?
Expedia makes it easy to book a quality long-term car rental in Illinois. Just click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your information and browse your options.
Where can I find an Illinois car rental if I am younger than 25?
Some Illinois companies will rent cars to drivers under 25, and others won't. Policies differ from supplier to supplier, so you'll want to do your homework. Also, find out if there are any additional costs. Some places will apply a surcharge to young customers between the ages of 21 and 24. Be sure to read through the terms and conditions so you know what to expect.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Illinois?
It's a good idea to have collision damage protection to cover your Illinois rental car against accident damage, theft and vandalism. And with Expedia, you can easily purchase this insurance for your vehicle during the booking process. Covering primary physical damage of up to $35,000, it also offers 24/7 emergency support and no deductible if you need to make a claim. Have your plans changed? If you cancel your policy before your scheduled pick-up time, you'll receive a full refund.
What are the cheapest car rentals in Illinois?
You can find cheap car rentals in Illinois from $10 a day with Routes's midsize 2/4 door. Car rentals in Illinois are picked up at the region's main gateway, Chicago - O Hare Internat (ORD). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Chicago, where rates can start from $10 a day, and Ottawa, also from $10 a day. Galena is another popular destination in the region. Suppliers such as Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car operate across the region, offering competitive rates. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a car rental in Illinois that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Illinois.
What are the best car rentals in Illinois?
Car rentals across Illinois offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, broadly available in the region's main cities — Chicago, Galena, and Ottawa. The most common car classes include:
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact SUV
Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, you'll find options to fit your needs. Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Illinois.

What are the best car rental companies in Illinois?
For car rentals across Illinois, well-rated providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Chicago, Galena, and Ottawa. Avis and Budget also provide excellent options for travelers. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Chicago - O Hare Internat (ORD) for exploring Illinois?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Chicago - O Hare Internat (ORD) for exploring Illinois. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car operate at the airport, with rates from around $14 a day. ORD is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Chicago to Galena and Ottawa.
Can I rent a car one-way in Illinois?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Illinois — pick up in one city, such as Chicago, and drop-off in another, like Ottawa, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $12 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Illinois?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Illinois, including in Chicago and Ottawa. Sixt offers hybrid options from $10 a day and electric options from $17 a day. Avis also provides hybrid options from $10 a day and electric options from $10 a day. Choosing an EV or hybrid can help keep fuel costs low, and charging is becoming increasingly available along major routes. For longer regional drives, planning your charging stops is a good idea.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Illinois?
For luxury car rentals across Illinois, Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars from $22 a day (and fullsize elite SUVs from $30 a day), while Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car also add premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Chicago and Ottawa. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Illinois.
What are the best car rentals in Illinois for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Illinois, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Chicago to Ottawa:
  • Alamo Rent A Car: midsize SUV from $14 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: mini passenger van from $29 a day — seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Sixt: fullsize elite SUV from $30 a day — seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Illinois.

What are the best car rentals in Illinois for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Illinois for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Chicago and Ottawa:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, from $16 a day — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, from $16 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Illinois.

What are the best car rentals in Illinois for couples?
The best car rentals in Illinois for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Chicago and Ottawa:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, from $14 a day — fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $16 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. These options are great for day trips and exploring the diverse attractions Illinois has to offer. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Illinois.

What are the best road trip destinations from Illinois by rental car?
From Illinois, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the Chicago hub include:
  • Grant Park, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America, less than a mile away
  • Chicago Riverwalk, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America, less than a mile away
  • Millennium Park, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America, less than a mile away
You could time your trip around events like the Chicago Marathon in October 2026, or the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival in November 2026. Consider adding activities such as the Chicago Architecture River Cruise or visiting the Willis Tower Skydeck. With cities like Ottawa also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Illinois.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Illinois?
In Illinois, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities like Chicago and Ottawa, and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
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 Illinois?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Illinois. 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 Illinois?
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 Illinois?
Budget car rental in Illinois can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . 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 Illinois?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Illinois. 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 Illinois car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Illinois?
To rent a car in Illinois, 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 Illinois car rental?
If you need to cancel your Illinois 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.

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