Car Rentals in Arlington Heights, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Arlington Heights

Renting a car in Arlington Heights provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a car, you can easily manage your luggage and tailor your travel plans to suit your interests. This is particularly beneficial for families, business travellers, or those looking for city-themed experiences. You can visit key attractions such as North School Park, an ideal spot for family and outdoor activities, or enjoy a cultural experience at the Metropolis Performing Arts Center, both located within Arlington Heights. For a more romantic or family-friendly outing, the Chicago Botanic Garden is a short 17 km drive away. Additionally, a rental car allows you to venture to nearby destinations like Chicago, where you can explore iconic sites such as Michigan Avenue and Millennium Park. Prospect Heights, just 4 km away, and Rolling Meadows, also 4 km distant, offer further opportunities for exploration, including parks and entertainment districts. Overall, having a car enhances your ability to enjoy the diverse offerings of Arlington Heights and its surroundings with ease.

Where to stay around Arlington Heights

• Arlington Heights: A charming suburban area nestled within Chicago, Arlington Heights offers a family-friendly atmosphere with access to urban parks and local shopping areas. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the sports facility stadium and various entertainment venues. It's an ideal base for those looking to experience both city and outdoor activities, making it a great spot for family holidays.
• Forest Lake: Located 15 km from Arlington Heights, Forest Lake is known for its family-oriented experiences and beautiful parks. This village features attractions such as Six Flags Great America, a theme park perfect for entertainment, and the Lake County Fairgrounds, which hosts various outdoor events. The area also boasts excellent dining options, including local wineries and restaurants, appealing to both families and business travellers.
• Hawthorn Woods: Also situated 15 km away from Arlington Heights, Hawthorn Woods combines a serene environment with city-themed experiences. The village is home to golf courses and event venues, making it suitable for both leisure and business stays. Visitors can enjoy attractions like Six Flags Great America and the Volo Auto Museum, catering to families and culture enthusiasts alike. Nearby wineries and distilleries provide delightful food and drink options.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Arlington Heights

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy enhanced availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure the car is returned empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help prevent unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.