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Discover The Best One-Way Rental Route: Champaign to Chicago

Plan your journey with convenience and confidence with our comprehensive tips and insights.

Can I rent a car from Champaign to Chicago?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Champaign to Chicago. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for US residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical United States national photo ID
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s).
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay. Supported card attributes include XpCard and DcCard.
  • Age requirements: The general driving age requirement is 20 to 99 years old. For young drivers aged 20 to 24, an additional fee applies: US$ 25.00 per day.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) (Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.)
    • Original South Korea Driving Lisense (English version) (An English translation must be provided on the back of the driver's license.)
  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay. Supported card attributes include XpCard, DcCard, and UnCard.
  • Age requirements: The general driving age requirement is 20 to 99 years old. For young drivers aged 20 to 24, an additional fee applies: US$ 25.00 per day.
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How much does renting a car from Champaign to Chicago cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 80/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 70/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 80-US$ 168US$ 0-US$ 53US$ 238-US$ 375Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 171US$ 50US$ 352Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 59-US$ 245US$ 0-US$ 106US$ 177-US$ 510Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 70-US$ 481US$ 0-US$ 106US$ 210-US$ 1,127Large groups, long drivers
Pickup TruckUS$ 505US$ 100US$ 1,122Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Fee: Many rental companies charge a fee for one-way rentals to account for the logistics of returning the vehicle to its original location. Ensure to check the fee before booking.
  • Cross-Border Restrictions: Review any restrictions regarding crossing state or national borders, especially if your route ventures into areas under different jurisdictions.
  • Route and Mileage Limits: Some rental agreements may include mileage caps that could impact your plans. Ensure your route falls within the allowable mileage to avoid additional costs.
  • Fuel Policy: Understand the fuel policy, whether it's full-to-full or another setup, to avoid extra charges. Always refill to the required level before dropping off.
  • Booking and Drop-off Timings: Verify the timing of your booking and drop-off to avoid penalties. Late returns may attract additional charges.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Check Rental Locations Availability: Some areas may have limited options for pick-up and drop-off locations. Research thoroughly to ensure convenient access.
  • Select The Right Vehicle Type: Pick a vehicle suitable for your journey—consider aspects like luggage space, fuel efficiency, and road conditions.
  • Map Out Refueling Stops: Planning fuel stops along your route is crucial, especially if covering areas with few gas stations.
  • Inspect The Vehicle Before Departure: Conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle for any pre-existing damages to avoid unwarranted charges.
  • Keep Contact Information Handy: Ensure you have the rental company’s contact information accessible in case of emergencies or road issues.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning it to avoid additional charges from the rental company.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Use nearby gas stations to the drop-off location to ensure the tank is full upon return.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel cost along this route is approximately $3.80 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed of around 65 mph for optimal fuel efficiency.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance.

Minimize the use of air conditioning to save fuel.

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Champaign Parking

Free parking is available at most public areas in Champaign.

Metered parking is enforced from 8 AM to 5 PM on weekdays.

Consider using parking garages for long-term parking needs.

Chicago Parking

Parking in downtown Chicago can be expensive, with rates ranging from $20 to $50 per day.

Street parking is available but may have time restrictions and require payment via meters.

Using parking apps can help locate affordable parking spots.

Recommended Parking Apps

SpotHero

ParkWhiz

ParkChicago

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes from Champaign to Chicago:
Interstate 72 and Interstate 55 Route
Interstate Highway 2 hours 15 minutes

This route takes the user through major interstate highways connecting Champaign to Chicago, ensuring a smooth and quick journey.

Springfield , Joliet
US Route 45 to Interstate 57
Scenic Overland Route 2 hours 45 minutes

A more scenic path covering rural landscapes and smaller towns before connecting to Interstate 57.

Rantoul , Kankakee
Interstate 57 Direct Route
Direct Highway Route 2 hours 10 minutes

A direct and efficient route via Interstate 57 that avoids detours and provides the quickest drive to the destination.

Rantoul , Joliet
Road Trip Planning Tips

Plan Vehicle Requirements: Ensure the vehicle rented accommodates your need in terms of space, comfort, and mileage efficiency.

Understand Rental Agreements: Read and comprehend the rental policies to avoid hidden fees and ensure smooth processing.

Select the Optimal Route: Plan your route considering traffic, road conditions, and stops for a more enjoyable journey.

Be Aware of Fuel Policies: Understand if the car rental requires a full-tank return to avoid additional fuel charges.

Purchase Adequate Insurance: Ensure that you have appropriate coverage to safeguard against unexpected costs.

Emergency Preparedness: Prepare for emergencies or breakdowns by having roadside assistance ready and staying informed about nearby services.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Selecting the right rental company ensures a smooth and hassle-free one-way car rental experience. Here are some recommended companies that offer one-way car rental services.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Enterprise Rent-A-Car$$★★★★★★★★★☆ Wide variety of vehicles , Frequent promotions
Hertz$$$★★★★☆★★★★★ Large network of locations , Premium car categories
Avis Car Rental$$★★★★☆★★★★☆ Efficient booking process , Exclusive membership perks
Budget Car Rental$★★★☆☆★★★☆☆ Affordable prices , Convenient for budget-conscious renters
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Information About Champaign and Chicago Rental Centers

Operating Hours:

Rental centers in Champaign and Chicago typically open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily, but hours may vary by location.

Rental Car Center Location:

Car rental centers are located within the city limits in Champaign and near O'Hare International Airport in Chicago.

Shuttle Services:

Regular shuttle services connect airports to nearby rental car centers, operating every 20 minutes.

Pro Tips for Champaign Airport(CMI) Car Rentals

Booking your one-way rental several days in advance can help secure better rates and vehicle availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents do I need to rent a car for the Champaign to Chicago route?

To rent a car, you typically need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and sometimes proof of insurance. It’s recommended to verify with the rental company beforehand.

Are there any additional fees for a one-way car rental?

Yes, one-way rentals often include a drop-off fee, which varies between agencies. This fee covers the cost of returning the vehicle to its original location.

Can I pick up the rental car in Champaign and drop it off in Chicago without a prior reservation?

It is generally recommended to have a prior reservation for a one-way rental to ensure vehicle availability and to confirm any costs or conditions related to the route.

What is the estimated driving time between Champaign and Chicago?

The drive from Champaign to Chicago typically takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and exact starting and ending points.

Are there age restrictions for renting a car on this route?

Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, although some may apply additional charges for renters under 25.

Ready to Book Your Champaign to Chicago Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

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