How to find a cheap car hire deal in Chicago
In search of a cheap rental car in Chicago? With prices averaging R 2,934 a day, big savings are just around the corner. Whether you're after a compact ride, a family sedan, or something else entirely, we compare all the best offers to get you more for your money.
Accelerate your savings by reserving your wheels in November. With average daily rates of R 606, it's the cheapest month to rent a car in Chicago.
If you want to time it right, book about four weeks ahead to score yourself a cheap rental car in Chicago.
Routes Car Rentals, Dollar and Hertz are some popular providers offering car hire deals in Chicago.
The coverage Routes Car Rentals or another supplier includes with your Chicago car hire can differ, so remember to read the fine print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will apply a surcharge for it.
Look into booking a one-way rental. You might be able to lock in a good deal if the provider needs to relocate some of its vehicles. Find the best available rates for a car for rent in Chicago by clicking 'Return car to a different location.'
Cut down on fuel costs by picking a car hire in Chicago that has a 'Fair fuel policy.' You collect the car with a full tank and drop it off full, so you're only paying for what you use.
Hit the highway without counting the miles and racking up additional charges. Go to the 'Policies' filter and select 'Unlimited mileage' to find a car that lets you explore without limits.
If your trip involves jetting into Chicago, you might like to give the city pickup a miss and grab one of the car rentals in O'Hare International Airport instead. Also browse the car rentals in Chicago Midway International Airport and car rentals in Chicago Rockford International Airport so you're good to roll wherever you arrive.
Compare car hire types in Chicago
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap rental car in Chicago gives you the freedom to explore for less. These zippy, fuel-efficient cars are good for short trips and city driving.
Medium: Not too small, not too big, it's the definition of just right. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they strike a balance of interior space and fuel efficiency and are good for couples and small families.
Large: Long drives are effortless in this Chicago car hire category. Also known as full-size, they have the engine size to match the journey. The extra legroom and comfort make them an excellent option for families and groups of friends.
SUV: When adventure's on your mind, an SUV's made for the moment. It's your ultimate road trip buddy, ready for backroads, highways, and anything in between. These sports utility vehicles also offer extra space and advanced safety features.
Van: Featuring options like commercial vans and trucks, this category of car for rent in Chicago effortlessly handles larger loads and group travel. They're tough, dependable, and ready for whatever your trip demands.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers the fee you'd have to pay if your Chicago car hire is damaged or stolen. While not mandatory, it's a smart add-on if you'd rather play it safe. Just remember that policies differ from one provider to another, so make sure you understand exactly what's included.
Take your ride to the next level with nifty extras like mobile Wi-Fi or a reverse camera. They can make your drive smoother and more enjoyable when you rent a car in Chicago.
Good to know
The minimum age to rent a car in the United States is generally 21 years old. However some providers make their own rules, so check your rental company's policy to find out where you stand.
Add a car seat to your Chicago car hire booking if you're travelling with small kids. Guidelines vary from one location to another, but using a child seat suited to their age, size and weight is always the safest option.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Chicago
You'll want to explore the biggest attractions in the city once you've found your car hire deal in Chicago. Lollapalooza and Millennium Park are essential viewing before leaving town.
When you're ready to check in, Hotel Saint Clair - Magnificent Mile and Warwick Allerton Chicago offer a welcome break in Chicago.
Keep travelling to Aurora. Around 56 kilometres west of central Chicago, it's home to favourite sights like Blackberry Farm and Breckenridge Park.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Aurora - Naperville and Comfort Inn & Suites North Aurora - Naperville are favourite accommodation options in Aurora.
Add Joliet to your travel plans. Pick up your cheap car hire in Chicago and drive around 56 kilometres south-west to explore major highlights such as Joliet Prison and Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66.
Take it easy after a day spent exploring Joliet at Red Roof Inn Chicago - Joliet. Or coast into comfort and stay at Harrah's Joliet.
Take things a bit further and road-trip it to Fort Wayne, roughly 225 kilometres east of Chicago. First, swing past African-American Historical Museum, then head to 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. Make one of them your base and enjoy everything Fort Wayne has to offer.
