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Drive with Ease on One-Way Rentals from Grand Rapids to Chicago

Discover convenient travel options with our one-way car rentals.

Can I rent a car from Grand Rapids to Chicago?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Grand Rapids 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 Germany national photo ID or 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).

    Notes: Non-local licenses from countries that are part of the International Driving Permit Agreement must be accompanied by an International Driving Permit. Renters with licences from countries that are not part of the International Driving Permit Agreement should check additional requirements.

  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and UnionPay.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 15.01 to US$ 41.00 per day, depending on the rental policy.
  • 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 IDP is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the IDP at the counter.)
    • Original driving licence + Official embassy translation in English (Please note that your English translation should be authorized by the embassy.)
    • EU Driving Licence
    • Original South Korea Driving Licence (English version) (An English translation must be provided on the back of the driver's license.)

    Notes: Renters who have indicated a country of residence outside of the United States or Canada will also be required to present a return airline ticket.

  • 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, AMEX, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and UnionPay.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 15.01 to US$ 41.00 per day, depending on the rental policy.
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How much does renting a car from Grand Rapids 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$ 108/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 110/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 140-US$ 236US$ 50-US$ 152US$ 323-US$ 419Solo travelers, couples
LargeUS$ 133-US$ 141US$ 50-US$ 51US$ 303-US$ 326Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 142-US$ 213US$ 50-US$ 265US$ 328-US$ 448Large groups, long drivers

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Fees: One-way rentals often include additional fees for returning the car to a different location. Verify these costs beforehand.
  • Mileage Limitations: Ensure the rental agreement includes sufficient miles for your journey without overage charges.
  • Cross-State Restrictions: Some rental companies may restrict cross-state travel. Confirm that your route is permitted.
  • Vehicle Availability: Smaller branches may have limited vehicle choices. Book in advance to secure your preferred type.
  • Drop-Off Locations: Check the operating hours and conditions of your drop-off location to avoid delays or inconvenience.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan Your Drop-Off Well: Choose a drop-off time during business hours to facilitate smooth processing.
  • Book in Advance: Securing your vehicle early helps avoid surge prices or inventory shortages.
  • Full to Full Policy: Fill the tank close to the drop-off location to align with full-to-full fuel agreements.
  • Read Rental Terms: Understand the contract, including coverage and cancellation policies, before travel.
  • Inspect the Vehicle: Inspect the vehicle and take photos to document its condition before departure.
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

Refueling before returning the car is usually less expensive than opting for a prepaid fuel option.

Always save the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Ensure the fuel gauge matches the level agreed upon in the rental contract.

Fuel Cost

The estimated average fuel price along this route is approximately $3.89 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed and avoid sudden accelerations to improve fuel efficiency.

Check tire pressure regularly to ensure optimal fuel usage.

Minimize the use of air conditioning when driving at lower speeds.

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Grand Rapids Parking

Downtown Grand Rapids offers metered street parking, typically costing $1.50 per hour.

Several parking garages are available, with daily rates ranging from $10 to $20.

Consider using public transportation from park-and-ride lots to avoid downtown congestion.

Chicago Parking

Chicago offers various parking options, including street parking and garages, with rates varying from $2 to $6 per hour.

Mobile apps like SpotHero can help find discounted parking in advance.

Be mindful of parking restrictions and permit zones in residential areas.

Recommended Parking Apps

SpotHero: Reserve parking spots in advance.

ParkWhiz: Find and book parking spaces near your destination.

BestParking: Compare prices and availability for parking options.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes from Grand Rapids to Chicago:
Scenic Lake Michigan Route
Scenic Drive 4 hours

This route follows the Lake Michigan shoreline, offering picturesque views and opportunities for stops along the beach.

Holland, MI , South Haven, MI , Benton Harbor, MI
I-196 to I-94 Main Route
Direct Route 3.5 hours

The most efficient way to travel to Chicago, taking major highways and minimizing travel time.

Kalamazoo, MI , Michigan City, IN
US-131 to US-12 Scenic Bypass
Historic Drive 4.5 hours

Explore the historic US-12 Heritage Trail, rich in history and quaint towns.

Three Rivers, MI , Sturgis, MI , New Buffalo, MI
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Plan Your Route: Use reliable maps or navigation apps to determine the best route.

Inspect the Vehicle: Check the rental car for any damages before starting the journey.

Fuel Stops: Plan fuel stops along the route to avoid running low in remote areas.

Allow Flexibility: Build in extra time for unexpected detours or stops.

Budget Wisely: Understand rental fees, including insurance, and stick to your travel budget.

Know Road Conditions: Check weather and road conditions before and during your trip.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Information on top car rental providers for a one-way trip between Grand Rapids and Chicago.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$HighWide Extensive fleet including luxury options , Easy online booking and check-in services , 24/7 roadside assistance available
Enterprise$$MediumWide Convenient locations in central areas , Affordable pricing with inclusive packages , Exceptional customer service
Budget$MediumModerate Economic rental plans , Basic yet reliable vehicle options , Quick rental process
Avis$$HighWide Premium service plans available , Rewards programs for frequent renters , Vehicle upgrade offers during promotions
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

Car Rental Centers in Grand Rapids and Chicago

Operating Hours:

Most rental locations are open from 7 AM to 11 PM.

Rental Center Locations:

Available at Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids and O'Hare International Airport in Chicago.

Shuttle Service:

Complimentary shuttle services are available between terminals and rental centers.

Vehicle Retrieval Process:

Quick and hassle-free retrieval and drop-off options available at both ends.

Pro Tips for Grand Rapids Airport(GRR) Car Rentals

It's advisable to book your vehicle in advance to secure the best rates and availability for a one-way rental.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a one-way car rental?

A one-way car rental allows you to pick up a rental car in one location, such as Grand Rapids, and drop it off at a different location, such as Chicago. This enables travelers to create flexible travel plans without the need to return to the original rental location.

Are there additional fees for one-way rentals?

Most rental companies charge a one-way fee, also known as a drop-off fee, for this service. The fee can vary depending on the rental company, the distance between pick-up and drop-off locations, and the time of year.

How can I ensure the best rates for a one-way rental?

Booking your rental in advance and comparing rates across different rental agencies can help find the most competitive pricing. Additionally, inquire about discounts or promotions that may apply to one-way rentals.

Do I need to refuel the car before returning it?

Most rental agreements require you to return the vehicle with a full tank of gas. If you opt out of this, you may be charged a higher refueling rate by the rental company.

What are some common restrictions on one-way rentals?

Many companies restrict specific vehicle types, like luxury or specialty cars, from being used for one-way rentals. Additionally, cross-border rentals (e.g., picking up in the U.S. and dropping off in Canada) might be restricted or incur additional fees.

Ready to Book Your Grand Rapids to Chicago Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes