Thrifty Car Rental - Chicago - O'hare International Airport

- 10255 W Zemke Blvd, Chicago, IL 60666

For Illinois residents and visitors arriving at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), Thrifty Car Rental provides an essential service with a focus on value and accessibility. Situated conveniently within the airport's dedicated transport hub, Thrifty aims to offer a straightforward and budget-conscious way to secure reliable transportation for travel across the Chicagoland area and beyond the state borders. As a prominent car rental agency, the brand is known for catering to both families on road trips and budget-minded business travelers.

The agency’s placement at the O'Hare Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) is designed to streamline the travel experience. By housing all rental operations in one location connected directly to the airport terminals via the Airport Transit System (ATS), Thrifty ensures that customers can transition quickly from baggage claim to their rental vehicle, a key convenience for anyone flying into Illinois.

A crucial part of Thrifty’s offering is its commitment to inclusivity and community support. The business proudly identifies as women-owned, offering customers the opportunity to support a diverse enterprise. Furthermore, the agency provides tangible benefits to those who serve, offering active military discounts on rentals.

While the experience is generally quick and satisfactory for many—with one customer happily noting a "very quick checkout experience" and a perfect mid-size SUV for a 3,377-mile, seven-state road trip—it is essential for new users to be aware of the full range of customer feedback. Like any high-volume airport vendor, Thrifty has received mixed reviews, particularly regarding pricing and post-rental charges, specifically for tolls. Savvy Illinois travelers are advised to carefully review their reservations and understand policies on extra charges, such as toll packages, to ensure their final bill aligns with expectations. By being proactive and informed, customers can fully take advantage of the convenience and value Thrifty aims to provide.

Thrifty's fleet typically includes a wide range of vehicles, from economical compact cars, which are the most popular choice at this location, to larger SUVs that are perfect for a family exploring the Great Lakes region or taking a multi-state journey. The ability to find a clean, reliable car at a competitive price point remains the core attraction for many users in the Illinois region.

Thrifty Car Rental is located in a highly centralized and accessible facility designed to serve all incoming Chicago O'Hare International Airport traffic.

The physical address, 10255 W Zemke Blvd, is synonymous with the O'Hare Multi-Modal Facility (MMF). This modern hub is the sole location for on-airport rental car operations, making the process of picking up and dropping off vehicles straightforward and efficient for users.

The seamless connection to all O'Hare terminals is provided by the Airport Transit System (ATS) train. Travelers simply follow the "Airport Transit" and "Rental Cars" signs from baggage claim, take the short train ride to the MMF station, and then proceed directly to the Thrifty counter. This system eliminates reliance on external shuttles, saving valuable time.

The location’s design is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring a smooth experience for all customers:

• Wheelchair Accessible Entrance: The MMF building and the Thrifty area are designed for easy entry and exit.
• Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot: Dedicated, clearly marked parking spots are available to accommodate renters with accessibility needs, ensuring a convenient transition to their rental vehicle.

For returning the car, customers simply follow the "Car Rental Return" signs leading back to the MMF at the same address, then take the ATS back to their departure terminal.

Thrifty Car Rental at O'Hare provides a variety of services to meet standard and specialized travel needs for Illinois customers.

• Car Rental Agency Services: Short-term and long-term vehicle rentals, including economy, mid-size, full-size, SUVs, and minivans.
• Onsite Services: The full rental process—from reservation verification to vehicle checkout and return—is handled directly at the Multi-Modal Facility location.
• Thrifty Blue Chip Rewards Program: A loyalty program designed to expedite service at the counter and allow members to earn free rental days.
• Flexible Payment Options: Acceptance of multiple payment methods to complete the rental transaction.
• Optional Amenities: Rental additions such as GPS units, child safety seats, and the proprietary PlatePass® All-Inclusive Tolling service are available for added convenience.

The Thrifty O'Hare location differentiates itself with several key features focused on value, convenience, and community.

• Identifies as Women-Owned: This designation supports customers who prioritize diversity and women-led businesses in the Illinois region.
• Active Military Discounts: Thrifty offers special discounted rates and perks for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families, often facilitated through programs like Veterans Advantage.
• PlatePass® All-Inclusive Tolling: An optional, pre-paid toll service, which is highly beneficial for driving on Illinois' extensive tollways (I-PASS and EZPass regions). This allows for unlimited, 24/7 toll usage for a single daily rate, helping avoid pay-by-mail fees and administrative charges.
• Payment Versatility: Acceptance of Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC Mobile Payments, providing flexibility at the rental counter.
• Quick Checkout Potential: Many customers report a "very quick checkout experience," which is a major advantage for travelers on tight schedules.
• Extensive Fleet for Road Trips: The availability of mid-size SUVs and other larger vehicles that are well-suited for family travel and long-distance road trips out of Chicago, as confirmed by positive customer reviews.

For reservations, inquiries, or assistance related to the O'Hare location, customers can reach Thrifty Car Rental using the following details:

Address: 10255 W Zemke Blvd, Chicago, IL 60666, USA (Located in the O'Hare Multi-Modal Facility)

Phone: (877) 283-0898

Mobile Phone: +1 877-283-0898

Thrifty Car Rental at Chicago O'Hare is an excellent choice for Illinois users who prioritize value, flexibility in payment, and a direct, streamlined airport experience. The most compelling reasons for choosing Thrifty are centered on its competitive pricing and its strategic location. The MMF location means travelers use the hassle-free ATS train directly to the counter, immediately saving the time and effort typically associated with off-airport rental shuttles. This convenience is crucial when navigating a busy hub like ORD.

The inclusion of the optional PlatePass® All-Inclusive Tolling service is a significant benefit for anyone driving in the Illinois region. Given the prevalence of I-PASS and all-electronic toll roads around Chicago, having a single, pre-paid daily rate for unlimited toll usage can prevent unexpected post-rental administrative fees and charges for travelers unfamiliar with the local tolling system. While customers always have the option to use their own EZPass or I-PASS transponder, the PlatePass option offers simplicity for those who prefer an all-inclusive solution.

However, potential customers, particularly those in Illinois who travel frequently, must engage in due diligence. While many customers enjoy a fast experience and a perfect car, the highly negative reviews regarding reservation price changes and the risk of overcharging must be acknowledged. The key to a successful Thrifty rental is vigilance: carefully confirming the final price at the counter and thoroughly understanding all charges, particularly declining or accepting toll packages. For customers who take this proactive approach, the benefits—such as the active military discount, the ease of using a clean, long-distance-ready vehicle, and the overall convenience of the O'Hare location—make Thrifty a solid, cost-effective option for travel in and out of Illinois.

Thrifty Car Rental - Chicago - O'hare International Airport

10255 W Zemke Blvd, Chicago, IL 60666, USA