$52 Car Rental Bloomington, IL

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Bloomington

Renting a car in Bloomington offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families, as it provides ample space for luggage and gear, allowing everyone to travel comfortably. With a rental car, you can easily access key attractions such as the Prairie Aviation Museum and the McLean County Museum of History, both located within Bloomington. Nature enthusiasts can visit Angler's Lake Conservation Area, also nearby.

The convenience of a car allows you to venture into neighboring cities like Normal, just 2 miles away, where you can enjoy additional attractions like Maxwell Dog Park. A short drive of 6 miles takes you to Shirley, where you can find more cultural experiences, while Towanda, located 8 miles from Bloomington, offers similar attractions. Having your own vehicle means no waiting for public transportation and the ability to create a flexible itinerary, making your travel experience more enjoyable and stress-free.

Most popular car rentals in Bloomington

• Midsize: The Midsize car option is a popular choice for travelers in Bloomington, accommodating up to 5 passengers and offering space for 3 large suitcases. This makes it ideal for couples or families looking for a comfortable ride while exploring the area. With a balance of space and maneuverability, a Midsize car allows you to navigate through Bloomington’s attractions with ease.
• Fullsize: For those traveling in larger groups or with extra luggage, the Fullsize car is an excellent option. It comfortably seats 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, making it perfect for families or groups. Renting a Fullsize car provides additional room for passengers and gear, ensuring everyone travels comfortably throughout your Bloomington adventure.
• Compact: The Compact car option is well-suited for solo travelers, couples, or smaller families. It accommodates up to 5 travelers with space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for those who desire a more economical rental while still enjoying the flexibility to explore Bloomington. A Compact car offers agility and ease of parking, perfect for navigating city streets.

Top rated car suppliers in Bloomington

• Hertz: With 2 rental locations in the Bloomington area, Hertz is a popular choice for travelers seeking flexibility and friendly service. The supplier boasts an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10. Many customers appreciate the ease of managing their luggage and adjusting their itinerary on the go. The most booked vehicles from Hertz include Midsize and Economy options, making it a great choice for a variety of travel needs.
• Budget: Known for its short wait times and clean vehicles, Budget has 1 rental location in Bloomington. This supplier is ideal for travelers looking for efficiency without compromising on quality. The most popular car types available for rent include Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, providing ample space for both passengers and luggage as you explore the area.
• Enterprise: With 2 rental locations in Bloomington, Enterprise is another excellent option for your car rental needs. Focused on customer satisfaction, Enterprise offers a range of vehicles that includes Midsize and Compact SUVs, catering to various preferences and group sizes. Their commitment to service ensures a smooth rental experience, allowing you to enjoy your exploration of Bloomington and beyond.

Where to stay around Bloomington

• Normal: Located 2 miles away from Bloomington, Normal offers a vibrant cultural and family-themed experience. Here, travelers can explore attractions such as the McLean County Museum of History and the Prairie Aviation Museum, both enriching options for culture enthusiasts. Additionally, enjoy shopping at the local shopping center and indulge in nearby food options, including restaurants and wineries. The presence of landmarks like historic and modern college universities makes Normal a diverse destination for visitors.
• Shirley: Situated 6 miles from Bloomington, Shirley is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. Travelers can visit the Angler's Lake Conservation Area for a nature escape or enjoy recreational activities at local parks. The McLean County Museum of History and the Prairie Aviation Museum are also accessible for cultural exploration. With various restaurants available, Shirley provides a welcoming atmosphere for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
• Towanda: Towanda, located 8 miles from Bloomington, is an ideal spot for adventure seekers and families looking to immerse themselves in the outdoors. Visitors can explore parks and nature reserves, with highlights including the Angler's Lake Conservation Area. The Prairie Aviation Museum and the McLean County Museum of History offer cultural insights while local wineries and restaurants provide dining options. This area is great for enjoying nature and engaging in educational experiences.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Bloomington

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economical car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid compromise between price, 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 luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case of any unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a straightforward process when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extended road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of 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 and around Bloomington

The best value period to rent a car in and around Bloomington is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. January also offers quiet conditions, making it a good time for rentals. Moving into the spring, April sees average prices with slightly low demand, while May experiences a rise in demand and prices, signaling the start of busier times. The peak months are June and July, where prices are slightly high and demand is notably high, reflecting the busiest period for car rentals.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Bloomington

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Bloomington

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $52.

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