Car Rental Charleston Intl. Airport (CHS)

Reasons to book a car rental at Charleston International Airport

Renting a car at Charleston International Airport (CHS) is a practical choice for travellers looking to explore the area freely and at their own pace. With easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, a rental car allows you to visit key attractions without the constraints of public transport schedules. Notable sites such as Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, located just 5 km away, offer rich cultural experiences, while Riverfront Park, 7 km from the airport, provides a lovely urban setting for family outings. Additionally, Marion Square, situated 14 km away, is perfect for enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere.

For those interested in exploring nearby destinations, a rental car is convenient for reaching North Charleston, where you can find Riverfront Park and other attractions. Wildwood, a neighbourhood just 3 km away, and Hanahan, located 6 km from the airport, also feature notable sites like Magnolia Plantation and Middleton Place. Whether you're travelling with family or seeking a friendly, historical experience, having a car enhances your ability to discover the beauty and charm of Charleston and its surroundings.

Most popular car rentals near Charleston Airport

• Midsize: The Midsize car option is a popular choice for travellers at Charleston airport, accommodating up to 5 people with ample space for up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent fit for couples or families looking to explore the area comfortably while managing their luggage with ease.
• Fullsize: Fullsize cars are another highly booked option for those renting at Charleston airport. With the ability to accommodate 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, this option is ideal for families or groups who require extra room for both passengers and their belongings, ensuring a pleasant journey.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is well-suited for those visiting Charleston airport, offering space for 5 travellers and accommodating up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for couples, families, or groups who appreciate a higher driving position and the flexibility to navigate various terrains comfortably.

Top rated car suppliers near Charleston International Airport

• Alamo Rent A Car: Located less than 1 km away from Charleston airport, Alamo is a popular choice among travellers. Known for its efficient service, Alamo offers a range of vehicles, with the Midsize SUV and Compact SUV being the most booked options. This supplier provides flexibility and convenience, making it easy for you to explore the Charleston area at your own pace.
• Budget: Also situated less than 1 km from Charleston airport, Budget is favoured for its competitive pricing and dependable service. The most booked vehicles include Midsize and Standard SUVs, catering well to families or groups looking for space and comfort. With a straightforward rental process, Budget allows you to manage your travel plans seamlessly.
• Thrifty Car Rental: With its location under 1 km from Charleston airport, Thrifty Car Rental is a convenient option for visitors. It offers a solid selection of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars being the most popular choices. Known for its hassle-free experience, Thrifty ensures that you can easily pick up your vehicle and start your adventure around Charleston.

Where to stay near Charleston International Airport

• North Charleston: Situated at the airport's doorstep, North Charleston offers a vibrant mix of family-friendly and entertainment-themed activities. This city features attractions such as Riverfront Park, perfect for outdoor adventures, and Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, ideal for culture enthusiasts. The area is also home to a shopping centre and various dining options, including local distilleries and wineries. Whether you're attending an event at the nearby arena or exploring the local beaches, North Charleston provides a convenient and diverse experience for travellers.
• West Ashley: Located 8 km from the airport, West Ashley is known for its family-friendly and outdoor experiences. Key attractions include the historic Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site and the serene Riverfront Park. The area boasts excellent shopping centres and a range of restaurants, making it a great spot for dining and leisure. With its close proximity to beaches and urban parks, West Ashley is an ideal choice for those seeking a blend of culture and relaxation during their stay.
• Hanahan: Just 6 km away from the airport, Hanahan is a charming city that caters to families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the scenic Riverfront Park, explore the historic Middleton Place, or experience the local distilleries and wineries. With easy access to sports facilities and nearby beaches, Hanahan is perfect for those looking to mix leisure with exploration. This neighbourhood offers a pleasant atmosphere for a memorable stay close to Charleston International Airport.

9 tips to save on your International Airport car rental near Charleston

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It is generally advisable to reserve your CHS car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months ahead is ideal, particularly before peak seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalising your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals provide a good balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals may require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies necessitate a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards are not always accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you prevent unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking with Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car from Charleston Airport

The best value time to rent a car from Charleston Airport is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February also offers moderate prices with lower demand, making it another good option. As spring approaches, April tends to be the busiest month, with prices rising to slightly high levels. May and June maintain moderate pricing, while December stands out as the most expensive month, albeit with lower demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	53.8°F (12.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
March	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
May	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
June	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	81.0°F (27.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	68.5°F (20.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
December	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High