From I‑90’s Kennedy to I‑94/I‑41 toward Milwaukee and I‑43 up the lakeshore, winter roads north of O’Hare can shift from dry to whiteout in minutes. If you land late at ORD and plan to cross state lines to Kenosha, Milwaukee, or Madison, here’s how to stay safe and keep your trip smooth with Hola Car Rentals.
Start by choosing the right vehicle and coverage. If you book your car rental early, you’ll have the best shot at AWD and modern safety tech. For UK and EU readers, ORD‑area car hire is also available with flexible pick‑up windows, so you can align with incoming flights and weather alerts.
Vehicle choice for Midwest snow
Standard sedans can handle plowed interstates, but lake‑effect bursts off Lake Michigan can quickly reduce visibility. Consider winter‑ready SUV options with traction control and higher ground clearance. Traveling with family or ski bags? A roomier cabin and extra luggage space make long stretches on I‑94 more comfortable.
Safety and timing on I‑94 and I‑41
Check the forecast before you leave ORD and add 30–45 minutes to your ETA during active snow. Keep speeds steady, leave longer following distances, and avoid sudden lane changes around semi‑trucks. If conditions deteriorate, pull into a service area to wait out the heaviest bands—it’s safer than pushing on.
Expect frequent plows on major corridors; merge early and avoid passing closely. Bridges and ramps freeze first—approach gently and avoid cruise control on slick decks. Keep washer fluid topped up, and clear lights and sensors during fuel stops.
Insurance and peace of mind with Hola Car Rentals
Hola Car Rentals makes winter trips easier with benefits tailored for road conditions: All‑Inclusive+ Rate with maximum coverage, Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up, and free travel insurance up to US$150,000 on selected itineraries. You focus on the road—we cover the fine print.
Essential winter tips
- Clear all ice from windows before moving—visibility is your first safety system.
- Keep your phone charged and a warm layer in the cabin for unplanned stops.
- Refuel before leaving the metro area; stations thin out north of the state line.
- Avoid cruise control on slick surfaces and bridge decks that freeze early.
FAQ
Do I need chains in Illinois or Wisconsin? Not typically—Midwest interstates are plowed quickly, and chain use is uncommon. An AWD or well‑equipped SUV is usually the better choice.
Will rental cars come with snow brushes? Most airport vehicles include an ice scraper and brush in winter; ask at pickup if you don’t see one.
Are tolls a problem in snow? Cashless gantries read plates even in flurries; drive normally and keep a safe gap.
Ready to roll from ORD to the Northwoods? Book now with Hola Car Rentals and enjoy flexible protection designed for winter driving.
