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Embark on Your Journey from Milwaukee to Chicago With Ease

Your hassle-free guide to one-way car rentals between these iconic Midwestern cities

Can I rent a car from Milwaukee to Chicago?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Milwaukee 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 Italy 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: If the licence is not in clear Latin characters (and thus unrecognisable as valid), an IDP will be required at the counter (along with the original licence). If the licence is not in Latin numerals, both a translation and the IDP are needed.

  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, AMEX, JCB, Discover, and UnionPay.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 19 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 19-24 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 29.89 per day or US$ 448.41 capped for the rental.
  • 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 driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • EU Driving Licence
    • Full driver's license issued in Italy

    Notes: If the licence is not in clear Latin characters (and thus unrecognisable as valid), an IDP will be required at the counter (along with the original licence). If the licence is not in Latin numerals, both a translation and the IDP are needed.

  • 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, AMEX, JCB, Discover, and UnionPay.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 19 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 19-24 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 29.89 per day or US$ 448.41 capped for the rental.
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How much does renting a car from Milwaukee 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$ 63/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 68/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 55-US$ 699US$ 0US$ 188-US$ 704Solo travelers, couples
LargeUS$ 61-US$ 916US$ 0US$ 172-US$ 921Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 63-US$ 2,555US$ 0-US$ 174US$ 203-US$ 3,502Large groups, long drivers
PremiumUS$ 1,032US$ 0US$ 1,037Families, comfort seeker
VanUS$ 116-US$ 3,076US$ 0-US$ 25US$ 331-US$ 3,081Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 617US$ 0US$ 622Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Rental Fee: Check if the rental company charges an additional one-way fee and factor this cost into your budget.
  • Vehicle Drop-Off Locations: Ensure the vehicle can be dropped off at your intended destination in Chicago, especially near your specific location.
  • Cross-State Restrictions: Verify if there are any restrictions or special conditions for crossing state lines.
  • Fuel Policy: Understand the company's fuel policy to ensure you refill the tank before drop-off if required.
  • Rental Duration: Ensure the rental duration matches your travel itinerary to avoid additional charges.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book in Advance: Reserve your car rental early to secure the best rates for your one-way trip.
  • Compare Companies: Use comparison tools to find the most suitable deal amongst various rental providers.
  • Inspect Restrictions: Check for any mileage or area restrictions that could affect your travel plans.
  • Understand Insurance Options: Learn about insurance coverage available for one-way rentals to safeguard against potential issues.
  • Route Efficiency: Plan your driving route to ensure you make timely use of vehicle rental time without unnecessary detours.
  • Prepare Documents: Make sure to carry all necessary documentation, including a valid driver’s license and credit card.
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.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Check the rental agreement for specific fuel requirements.

Fuel Cost

Estimated average fuel price along the route is $3.50 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to improve fuel efficiency.

Ensure tires are properly inflated before starting the trip.

Avoid excessive use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

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Milwaukee Parking

Street parking available with metered spots downtown.

Several public parking garages offer hourly and daily rates.

Consider using park-and-ride facilities for long-term parking.

Chicago Parking

Downtown parking can be expensive; expect rates around $20-$40 per day.

Use parking apps to find and reserve cheaper parking spaces.

Some hotels offer discounted parking for guests.

Recommended Parking Apps

SpotHero

ParkWhiz

ParkMobile

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes between Milwaukee and Chicago:
Lakefront Scenic Route
Scenic 2 hours 30 minutes

A picturesque drive along the Lake Michigan coastline with a chance to explore Chicago's lakefront.

Kenosha , Racine , Evanston
Direct Interstate Route
Direct 1 hour 30 minutes

The fastest and most direct route along Interstate 94.

Highway rest areas , Skokie , Lincolnwood
Historic Route 41
Historic 2 hours

A traditional drive through historic towns and countryside.

Pleasant Prairie , Wadsworth , Highland Park
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Optimize Your Route Selection: Consider scenic byways or fast highways based on your time and interests.

Understand Rental Costs: Ensure all rental fees, one-way trip charges, and toll fees are clarified beforehand.

Choose the Right Vehicle: Select a comfortable rental car suitable for highway travel.

Monitor Fuel Stops: Plan gas fill-ups especially in less dense rural stretches of the drive.

Time Your Departure: Leave at off-peak hours to avoid major city traffic.

Plan Rest Breaks: Identify safe rest stops to ensure a pleasant journey.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Introduction to company selection, only include companies that offer one-way rental service

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$HighExcellent Wide range of vehicle options , Strong presence in both Milwaukee and Chicago
Enterprise$MediumGood Affordable one-way fee , Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations
Avis$$$HighExcellent Premium vehicle selection , 24/7 customer support
Budget$MediumGood Competitive pricing , Frequent discount offers
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

Milwaukee Car Rental Center Information

Operating Hours:

Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Location:

Located at Milwaukee International Airport, Ground Transportation Center.

Shuttle Availability:

Frequent shuttles every 15 minutes to/from the terminal.

Customer Service:

Dedicated help desk available at the rental center.

Pro Tips for Milwaukee Airport(MKE) Car Rentals

It’s advised to book your one-way car rental in advance to ensure availability and to potentially save on fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of choosing a one-way car rental from Milwaukee to Chicago?

One of the main benefits is flexibility, as you are not required to return the vehicle to its original location. This is ideal for travelers ending their trip in Chicago or those looking to bypass the returns in Milwaukee. Additionally, it saves time and can save on the cost of traveling back to the starting point.

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

Yes, many rental agencies charge a drop-off fee for one-way rentals, which covers the cost of returning the car to its originating location. It's recommended to inquire about this fee at the time of booking to factor it into your travel budget.

What documentation is required to rent a car for this route?

Most rental companies require a valid driver's license, a credit card in the renter’s name, and sometimes proof of insurance. Additional identification may be necessary if you’re renting in a location outside of your home country.

Can I choose the type of vehicle for my one-way rental?

Absolutely, car rental companies usually offer a selection of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and even luxury cars. It's recommended to reserve your preferred vehicle in advance to ensure availability.

Is it possible to extend my one-way rental duration once booked?

This typically depends on the rental agency's policies and the availability of the vehicle. Contacting the rental company directly as early as possible will give more options for extending your rental time.

Ready to Book Your Milwaukee to Chicago Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes