Cheap Car Hire at Chicago O'Hare International Airport, ORD

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.

Most rental companies will require a credit card for the deposit, which is typically frozen in your account. Make sure to inquire about the specific deposit amount and the policy for releasing the freeze.

Many rental companies require payment by credit card and may not accept debit cards. If you only have a debit card, check the rental company's payment policies in advance and look for suitable options.

When renting a car, especially if you’re arriving by flight, plan for extra time at pickup to accommodate any potential delays. Most suppliers offer a grace period of 30-60 minutes. Providing your flight number can be helpful, but if you’re running late, be sure to call the supplier to inform them.

If you’re dropping off your rental car at the airport, be aware of parking fees and procedures for returning the vehicle.

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

Many rental companies have apps that provide real-time updates and notifications about your pickup.

When renting a car, understand the fuel policy. A 'Full-to-Full' policy means you return the car with a full tank, while 'Same-to-Same' means you return it with the same level of fuel. Full-to-Full is often more cost-effective.