Car Hire in Austin, Chicago, United States

Ensure that you have a valid driving licence with at least one year of driving experience. If you are a foreign driver travelling to Chicago, an international driving permit may be required. Remember, hire rates can be higher for drivers under 25 or over 70

Familiarize yourself with the fuel policy. A 'Full-to-Full' policy requires returning the vehicle with a full tank, while 'Same-to-Same' requires it to be returned at the same fuel level. Full-to-Full is generally more economical.

If you have a specific vehicle model in mind, opt for rentals that assure the car type. This prevents surprises at pickup if a different vehicle is provided.

Prior to booking, read through the rental agreement thoroughly for any hidden fees, such as airport surcharges, additional driver costs, or penalties for late returns. Being informed is essential for budgeting.

Before renting a car, check if your personal car insurance covers rental losses. Many personal auto insurance policies and credit cards offer coverage for rentals, which could save you from extra insurance fees.

Inquire whether the rental agency provides additional items such as GPS devices or child safety seats. These can enhance your trip but may incur extra costs, so plan ahead.

Some rentals have mileage limits, while others provide unlimited options. Read the policies carefully to avoid unexpected charges upon return.

If sharing driving responsibilities, check the policies regarding additional drivers. Some companies charge fees for each extra driver, while others may include it for free under certain conditions.