Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving millions of passengers annually. Whether you're in Chicago for business, a family vacation, or an extended stay, renting a car at O'Hare can provide the convenience and flexibility needed to explore the city and its surroundings efficiently.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about airport rentals at O'Hare, including the best rental companies, costs, tips for securing the best deals, and important policies to be aware of. This article is written following Google's EEAT (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness) guidelines to provide reliable and valuable information.
Chicago is a major metropolitan city with a robust public transportation system. However, renting a car can still be the best option for many travelers due to the following reasons:
Convenience: Avoid waiting for taxis, rideshares, or public transportation.
Freedom: Explore areas outside of downtown Chicago, such as the suburbs, national parks, and neighboring states.
Cost-Effectiveness: For extended stays or group travel, renting a car is often cheaper than relying on ride-hailing services.
Business & Flexibility: Business travelers can benefit from the ability to move quickly between meetings and events.
O’Hare has a centralized Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) where all rental car companies are located. Shuttle buses transport passengers from terminals to this rental center. Here are some of the top rental car companies available at ORD:
Enterprise Rent-A-Car – Offers a broad range of vehicles with great customer service.
Hertz – Well-known for luxury and premium car rentals.
Avis – Ideal for business travelers seeking seamless service.
Budget – Provides budget-friendly rental options.
Alamo – Popular for families and vacationers with competitive rates.
National Car Rental – Known for its fast check-in and rental process.
Thrifty – Offers affordable rental choices for budget-conscious travelers.
Dollar Rent A Car – A reliable option for economy rentals.
Sixt – Specializes in premium and luxury rentals.
In addition to traditional rental companies, there are also peer-to-peer car rental platforms available:
Turo – Rent directly from local car owners, often at lower rates.
Kyte – A car delivery service that brings the rental car to you.
Silvercar by Audi – Offers premium Audi vehicles with hassle-free service.
Booking in advance can save money and ensure vehicle availability. Websites like Expedia, Kayak, and Rentalcars.com allow easy price comparisons.
Once you land at O’Hare, follow the signs for Rental Car Center Shuttle outside the baggage claim area. These shuttles run 24/7 and take passengers to the Multi-Modal Facility.
After arriving at the rental center, head to your chosen company’s counter. Ensure you have:
A valid driver's license
A credit card (or debit card, depending on the company’s policy)
Reservation details
Any necessary additional documentation for international renters
Before leaving, thoroughly inspect the car for any damages and ensure they are documented by the rental company to avoid extra charges upon return.
Read the terms carefully, including:
Insurance coverage
Mileage limits
Fuel policies
Additional driver fees
Late return fees
The cost of renting a car at O’Hare depends on various factors such as the type of car, rental duration, and demand. Here’s a breakdown of common expenses:
Base Rental Price: Economy cars start at around $35–$60 per day, while SUVs and luxury cars can range from $80–$200 per day.
Taxes & Fees: Airport concession fees and local taxes can add 10–20% to your total cost.
Insurance: Optional insurance coverage varies between $10–$30 per day unless covered by your personal auto insurance or credit card.
Additional Drivers: Many rental companies charge an extra fee of around $10 per day for additional drivers.
One-Way Rentals: If dropping off the car at a different location, expect extra fees.
Book in Advance – Last-minute rentals tend to be more expensive.
Use Discount Codes – Check for corporate, AAA, AARP, or credit card discounts.
Avoid Peak Times – Holidays and peak seasons result in higher rental rates.
Skip Unnecessary Add-ons – GPS and roadside assistance may come with extra costs; use your phone’s navigation instead.
Check for Hidden Fees – Read the terms to avoid unexpected charges.
Join Loyalty Programs – Many companies offer discounts and free upgrades for members.
Consider Off-Airport Rentals – Sometimes renting from a nearby location instead of the airport can be cheaper.
If your rental agreement requires a full tank, refuel at a nearby gas station before returning the vehicle to avoid extra charges.
Return your car to the designated area at the Multi-Modal Facility. Staff will inspect the vehicle and finalize the return process.
After returning your car, board the free shuttle to your terminal for your flight.
Renting a car at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is a practical and efficient way to explore the city and beyond. With a variety of rental companies and vehicle options available, finding the right rental car is simple when you plan ahead. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth and budget-friendly rental experience. Whether you’re visiting for business, leisure, or a road trip through the Midwest, having a rental car will make your trip significantly more convenient and enjoyable.
