Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Saint Louis to Chicago. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.
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.
One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:
Starting from
US$ 66/dayStarting from
US$ 68/day| Vehicle Types | Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included) | One-way Fee | Total(3-day Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | US$ 99-US$ 198 | US$ 51-US$ 203 | US$ 198-US$ 296 | Solo travelers, couples |
| Large | US$ 100-US$ 164 | US$ 0-US$ 102 | US$ 201-US$ 262 | Families, comfort seeker |
| SUV | US$ 101-US$ 226 | US$ 51-US$ 150 | US$ 203-US$ 356 | Large groups, long drivers |
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.
Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
Refuel the car before returning to avoid additional charges from the rental company.
Keep the last fuel receipt to provide proof of refueling.
Use the recommended octane level for the vehicle to ensure optimal performance.
The estimated average fuel price along the route is $3.80 per gallon.
Maintain a steady speed and use cruise control when possible to conserve fuel.
Ensure tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure.
Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle to improve fuel efficiency.
Downtown Saint Louis offers various parking garages with rates around $2–$5 per hour.
Street parking is available but may have time restrictions.
Consider using a parking app to find and reserve spots in advance.
Chicago has numerous parking lots with rates averaging $10–$20 per hour.
Street parking is limited and often metered, especially in busy areas.
Look for Park & Ride facilities if you plan to use public transport after drop-off.
SpotHero: Helps locate and reserve parking spaces in advance.
ParkWhiz: Offers discounted parking rates and easy booking.
ParkChicago: Official app for metered parking in Chicago.
Includes a visit to Springfield, exploring the historical sights of Abraham Lincoln's home and library.
Experience the natural beauty of Southern Illinois with a detour to the Shawnee National Forest.
Focus on experiencing classic Route 66 stops including historic diners and landmarks.
Explore charming suburbs of Chicago like Naperville and Oak Brook, which have plenty of attractions.
Choose the Right Vehicle: Ensure the rental vehicle suits your travel needs, factoring in road type, passenger capacity, and luggage space.
Plan Fuel Stops: Familiarize yourself with gas stations along I-55 and major routes to avoid unexpected delays.
Check Road Conditions: Verify road conditions and traffic updates on alternate routes before starting your trip.
Book Rentals in Advance: Secure better deals by reserving your rental early for peak travel times.
Pack Smart and Save Costs: Bring travel essentials and snacks to reduce reliance on frequent stops and extra costs.
Study Route Maps: Keep a physical or downloaded map as a backup in case of GPS navigation issues.
Recommendations for selecting a car rental company for your one-way route from Saint Louis to Chicago. All listed companies offer one-way rental service.
| Company | One-Way Fee | Fleet Variety | Location Coverage | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hertz | $$ | High | Extensive | Wide variety of premium vehicles , Strong presence in both cities |
| Enterprise | $ | Medium | Broad | Affordable rates , Convenient neighborhood locations |
| Avis | $$ | High | Comprehensive | Choice of economy to luxury cars , Flexible rental policies |
| Budget | $ | Medium | Wide | Competitive pricing , Easy drop-off procedures |
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Rental car centers at both locations operate 24/7 to accommodate travelers.
In Saint Louis, the rental car center is located at 10701 Lambert International Blvd. And in Chicago, at the main terminal area.
Free shuttle buses run every 10–15 minutes between the terminals and rental car facilities in both cities.
To minimize waiting times, it is recommended to book your vehicle in advance and verify availability for one-way routes.
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