$49 Car Rental Alton, IL

Search and Compare from Car Companies in Alton

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top Car Deals in Alton

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

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Alton
View all cars

What you need to know for your Alton car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Alton

Renting a car in Alton, Illinois, is an excellent choice for visitors looking to explore the area with freedom and flexibility. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create a personalized travel itinerary. This is particularly beneficial for road trippers, family travelers, and adventurers eager to discover the region at their own pace. For outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking romantic experiences, attractions like The Gardens at SIUE, located 12 miles away, offer beautiful botanical scenery. If wildlife interests you, the Treehouse Wildlife Center, just 11 miles from Alton, is a great destination. Culture seekers can visit the Robert Wadlow Statue right in Alton. Additionally, nearby cities like Edwardsville and Granite City, both about 13 miles away, provide even more attractions, including the Edwardsville Watershed Nature Center and the Gateway Arch. The close proximity of West Alton, located only 3 miles away, features notable sites such as the National Great Rivers Museum. A rental car allows you to seamlessly access these experiences, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable visit to the Alton area.

Most popular car rentals in Alton

  • Midsize: The midsize car is a popular choice for travelers in Alton, accommodating up to 5 passengers and providing space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is particularly ideal for couples and families looking for comfort and convenience while exploring the area. With its balance of space and efficiency, a midsize car allows you to manage luggage easily and enjoy the freedom of the open road.
  • Fullsize: The fullsize car option is perfect for families and groups, as it fits 5 travelers and can handle up to 3 large or 5 medium suitcases. This extra space is beneficial for road trippers who need to bring along more gear or luggage for their adventures. A fullsize car provides a roomy and comfortable ride, making it an excellent choice for those looking to travel comfortably while discovering Alton and its surroundings.
  • Compact: Compact cars are a versatile choice for solo travelers, couples, and families, seating up to 5 passengers and accommodating up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is especially popular for those who appreciate easy maneuverability and fuel efficiency. Ideal for navigating Alton and nearby attractions, a compact car allows you to explore with flexibility, making it a great option for various travel plans.

Top rated car suppliers in Alton

  • Enterprise: Enterprise is a top choice for travelers in Alton, offering a convenient rental location within the city. Known for its excellent customer service, Enterprise provides a diverse fleet of vehicles, with Midsize and Fullsize cars being the most popular options. This supplier allows you the flexibility to explore Alton and its surroundings at your own pace, making your journey enjoyable and hassle-free.

Where to go in and around Alton

  • Edwardsville: Located 13 miles away from Alton, Edwardsville is a vibrant city attracting visitors year-round, with peak seasons in March to April and July. It offers a mix of outdoor, family, and romantic experiences. Key attractions include The Gardens at SIUE, a beautiful botanical garden perfect for family outings, and the Edwardsville Watershed Nature Center, which is great for eco-friendly adventures. Additionally, the Edwardsville Arts Center showcases local culture and art, providing enriching experiences for those interested in the arts.
  • Granite City: Also situated 13 miles from Alton, Granite City is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, with peak visitor numbers in March and June to July. Notable highlights include the Gateway Arch, a spectacular monument reflecting culture, and the Enterprise Center, an entertainment venue perfect for family fun. For those attending business events, the America's Center Convention Complex offers a variety of facilities. Granite City is a great base for adventure seekers looking to explore the area's recreational offerings.
  • West Alton: Just 3 miles away from Alton, West Alton is a picturesque city that attracts visitors primarily during the summer months from June to August. It's known for its outdoor scenery and adventure activities. Explore Lincoln Douglas Square, a charming piazza, or visit the National Great Rivers Museum, which offers insights into the region's natural history. The Robert Wadlow Statue also stands as a cultural landmark. With its stunning lakes and state parks, West Alton provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

10 tips to save on your Alton car hire

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the perfect vehicle for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your reservation well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to find lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is typically the most economical. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be acceptable, but ensure that you return the vehicle empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide added peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra fees.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Alton

The best value period to rent a car in and around Alton is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. March and April also offer moderate pricing with lower demand, making them good options as well. In contrast, July is the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand, making it a busy time for rentals. August follows closely with slightly high prices but average demand.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January30.2°F (-1.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February33.3°F (0.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
March45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
April54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
May65.3°F (18.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June74.7°F (23.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
July77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August75.6°F (24.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September69.6°F (20.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly Low
December36.5°F (2.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Alton

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Alton

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $49.

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.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

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
$49
 
Our second best deal of the day
$50
 
Our third best deal of the day
$56
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Alton?
You get serious bang for your travel buck in Alton, with car rental prices within the past seven days starting from as low as $49 per day.
Can I rent a car from Lambert-St. Louis Intl. Airport (STL)?
There are several places to rent a car near Lambert-St. Louis Intl. Airport (STL), but none are located in the terminal. The closest options are Budget, Thrifty, National, Enterprise and Alamo.
What happens if I need to cancel my Alton car reservation?
Canceling your rental car with six hours notice should allow for a complete refund. However, this is not always the case. It's good to check your itinerary and rental agreement. Still stuck for answers? Jump onto our Customer Service Portal.
Where can I go on a road trip from Alton?
There's heaps to do in Alton, but head farther afield and you'll find even more magic. Pick up a set of wheels and you can wander around the greater area at your own pace. Add these awesome places to your to-do list:

  • Head off to Springfield for an excellent sightseeing adventure. Roughly 70 miles from Alton, it's home to lots of amazing sights like Illinois State Fairgrounds.
  • Your next pit stop? Consider Columbia, which is around 120 miles away. Mizzou Arena is one local highlight you really shouldn't miss.
  • Spend time in the outdoors and breathe in some fresh air at Starved Rock State Park. It's about 180 miles from Alton.

How do I find the best car rental deals in Alton with Expedia?
Whatever class of ride you're searching for, Expedia will help you nab the best deal. Just compare the offers from reliable rental providers and select the option that suits you. Want to hit the road with even more in your wallet? Combine your Alton car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Alton?
The youngest age you can rent a vehicle in Alton is 21. An extra fee for young drivers applies, so check before you book and factor in possible additional costs. There may also be restrictions on the categories of vehicles available to young drivers. For instance, some providers will only rent out economy, compact and medium-sized cars to young motorists. Rules may differ between suppliers, so look over the fine print.
What do you need to rent a car in Alton?
Any rental company you select will need these two things — a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name. If you want to opt out of the provider's insurance plan, proof of your own coverage will also likely be needed. Read your policy thoroughly so you know what to bring when it's time to collect your wheels.
What is the cheapest car rental in Alton?
Based on prices found over the past seven days, you could've slid into the driver's seat of a rental car for just $49 per day. The second lowest daily price on offer in Alton was $50. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Alton?
You can rent a car for a month or longer in Alton, so go on and extend your vacation! Just enter your trip details into our long-term car rental deals page and lock in your perfect ride.
Where can I find an Alton car rental if I am younger than 25?
If you're a young driver hoping to rent a car in Alton, you'll need to check the policies of the rental companies you're interested in. Some may rent to drivers under 25, some may not. There may be additional fees if you're aged between 21 and 24. To avoid any surprises at the rental counter, make sure you do your research.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Alton?
We recommend adding collision protection while booking your Alton rental car with Expedia. This covers your vehicle against accident damage, theft and vandalism throughout your road trip. Offering up to $35,000 in primary coverage and 24-hour emergency support, you can get behind the wheel knowing you'll be covered for possible mishaps. It's easy to opt in to this plan while booking your rental car.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia