How to find a cheap car hire deal in Champaign
Searching for a cheap rental car in Champaign? This is where the booking magic happens. With prices averaging R 2,642 a day, we compare all the best deals so you can choose fast, spend less, and hit the road happy.
R 1,040 is the cheapest daily price listed for a rental in Champaign.
For longer trips, pick up a weekly rental from R 7,275 and fit more into your itinerary.
To land the best price on a Champaign car hire, try to book ahead. Rates generally rise as your travel dates approach, and you might have less to pick from.
Browse the offers available with Hertz, Thrifty and Enterprise. They're some of the most well-known providers in the city.
Whether you book with Hertz or another supplier, double-check the coverage on your Champaign car hire. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others charge extra for it.
Booking a one-way car hire can be your secret weapon for cheaper deals. Simply select 'Return car to a different location.' Providers often have to move vehicles from one branch to another, which means you can snag some great one-way prices on a car for rent in Champaign.
Cut down on fuel costs by choosing a vehicle that has a 'Fair fuel policy.' You pick up your ride with a full tank and bring it back full, so you're only paying for what you use.
Hit every stop on your wish list by searching for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, it means you can go as far as you like with no extra cost.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll get the best value with this company. Prices average R 1,614 a day.
Coming in next, [this provider](this provider](https://www.skyscanner.co.za/car-hire/car-hire-with-provider/dollar/731)) offers daily rates of around R 1,514.
The third option won't break the bank either. You'll pay roughly R 1,542 a day with this supplier.
After a car that works for most trips? The Intermediate rental category comes in as the leading choice for travellers visiting Champaign.
Flying to Champaign? Think about an airport pick-up
If you're flying into Champaign, make tracks sooner by picking up a car hire at Champaign Airport. The drive time from this airport to the city centre is around 11 kilometres and takes about 15 minutes.
Compare car hire types in Champaign
Small: These cheap rental cars in Champaign may be small in size, but they pack a big punch. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're easy to manoeuvre, great on mileage, and just the thing for city driving.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine space, fuel efficiency and comfort. Easy to handle in traffic and roomy enough for longer drives, they're a reliable fit for most trips.
Large: You've got the kids, the suitcases, the snacks, the works. Large vehicles have got the capacity to pack it all in without breaking a sweat. Ideal for longer drives, this Champaign car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: When adventure calls, an SUV answers. It's your perfect road trip buddy, ready for country roads, highways, and everything in between. These sports utility vehicles also deliver on space and improved safety features.
Van: Go for this vehicle category when you need a car for rent in Champaign that makes light work of heavy loads. Featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're designed to transport more, whether that's equipment, suitcases or large groups.
Insurance and optional extras
Choosing excess insurance for your Champaign car hire can take the stress out of driving. It protects you from paying a hefty excess fee in case of theft or damage. Insurance policies can differ from one provider to another, so compare before you commit.
Upgrade your ride with extras like mobile Wi-Fi or a reverse camera. These add-ons can make your drive more efficient and enjoyable when you rent a car in Champaign.
Good to know
To rent a car in the United States, you generally have to be at least 21 years old. Some locations may allow younger drivers to rent vehicles for a surcharge, so always go over the policies before confirming your booking.
Add a car seat to your Champaign car hire booking if you're bringing the kids. Requirements change from place to place, but using a child seat suited to their size, weight and age is always the safest choice.
Come prepared to keep the pick-up process smooth. You'll generally need your physical driver's licence (not a screenshot or digital version) and another form of photo ID. Bring a credit card with enough balance for the deposit too. If extra documents are required, they'll be listed in your booking.
Familiarise yourself with your rental. Fix your seat and mirrors, find the lights and wipers, and get used to its handling before you set off. And remember to stick to the right side of the road in the United States.
Local speed limits may vary, but it's typically around 40kph in built-up areas and 110kph or so on highways. Always obey the posted signs.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the United States is 0.08%. Since alcohol's effects vary from person to person, the best way to be sure you're safe to drive is not to drink anything at all.
Around 5pm is one of the busiest times for traffic in this destination. Try to avoid peak travel times generally for a more relaxed drive.
You'll be using the United States dollar (USD) here. In addition to your debit and credit cards, consider bringing some cash for minor purchases.
Best hotels in Champaign for drivers
Offering parking, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Champaign North, IL makes it easy to come and go as you please. This hotel is about 5 kilometres from central Champaign and also comes with express check-out and wake-up call services.
I Hotel and Illinois Conference Centre - Champaign is also a good option if your plans involve plenty of driving. It features accessible parking, along with a restaurant and internet access. Make this your base and you'll be roughly 3 kilometres from the city centre.
Need more ideas before you book? Browse through the full list of hotels in Champaign. You can narrow things down with filters — try 'Parking,' 'Valet parking,' or 'Outdoor parking.' If your car's electric, you can select the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter too.
It's time to get out and explore now you've locked in a car hire deal in Champaign and your hotel. From State Farm Centre to Krannert Art Museum and Orpheum Children's Science Museum, you'll find plenty to fill your days here.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Champaign
Bloomington has to be on your itinerary if you'd like to visit BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Bloomington and David Davis Mansion State Historic Site. This city is about 72 kilometres northwest of central Champaign.
They've got hospitality down to a fine art at Red Roof Inn Bloomington - Normal/University and Hawthorn Extended Stay by Wyndham Bloomington, two reliable accommodation options with parking in Bloomington.
Or collect your cheap car hire in Champaign and then set out for Decatur. Around 64 kilometres southwest of Champaign, Scovill Zoo and Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum are standout attractions that make the drive more than worth it.
Decatur has some great places to stay including FairBridge Inn Express Decatur and Holiday Inn & Suites DECATUR-FORSYTH by IHG. Both are convenient choices for guests with cars.
Stretch your journey and road-trip it to Fort Wayne, about 290 kilometres northeast of Champaign. Kick things off at African-American Historical Museum, then spend some time at Salomon Farm Park.
Check out the room availability at Hilton Fort Wayne at the Grand Wayne Convention Centre or Courtyard Fort Wayne Downtown at Grand Wayne Convention Centre. They're an ideal base for exploring everything Fort Wayne has to offer. They also have parking available.
