Charleston Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Charleston

Renting a car in Charleston offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this charming city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Waterfront Park, which provides a beautiful urban setting for family outings and outdoor experiences. History enthusiasts can explore Magnolia Plantation and Gardens and Fort Sumter, both rich in culture and located conveniently within the area. Additionally, a car allows you to navigate popular destinations like the Charleston Historic District, where you can enjoy scenic spots such as Rainbow Row and Marion Square. Downtown Charleston, featuring the Aiken-Rhett House Museum and Charleston City Marina, is also easily accessible. If you seek outdoor activities, you can drive to James Island for attractions like Sunrise Park Beach and James Island County Park. Renting a car not only simplifies luggage management but also accommodates flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for families and those looking to enjoy beach-related experiences. Overall, a rental car enhances your journey through Charleston, allowing you to discover its rich history and natural beauty with convenience.

Most popular car rentals in Charleston

• Midsize SUV: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases—ideal for families, couples, or small groups. This option provides ample space for passengers and their belongings, making it a versatile choice for exploring Charleston comfortably and conveniently.
• Standard SUV: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 2 medium suitcases—ideal for couples, families, or groups. The standard SUV balances space and manoeuvrability, allowing you to navigate urban areas while still enjoying the freedom to venture further afield with a comfortable ride.
• Compact: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 medium suitcases—ideal for solo, couples, or families. The compact option is an excellent choice for those who prefer an efficient vehicle that is easy to park and handle, while still providing enough room for passengers and their essentials during your Charleston adventure.

Top rated car suppliers in Charleston

• Budget: With 2 rental locations in Charleston, Budget provides an excellent option for those seeking both convenience and value. Known for its flexibility, Budget is particularly popular for renting Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, making it a great choice for families or groups looking to explore the region comfortably. Enjoy the freedom to manage your itinerary while discovering the attractions Charleston has to offer.
• Avis: Avis also features 2 rental locations in the Charleston area, catering to travellers who appreciate a reliable car rental experience. This supplier is a top choice for those looking to rent Midsize and Standard SUVs, ensuring a great balance of space and comfort for your adventures. With Avis, you can easily navigate the city and surrounding areas, making your trip an enjoyable and memorable one.
• Enterprise: With 2 convenient locations in Charleston, Enterprise is a preferred option for those seeking a variety of vehicle choices. This supplier is particularly well-known for its Midsize and Compact car rentals, providing a suitable solution for solo travellers or couples. Renting with Enterprise allows you to explore Charleston's attractions at your own pace while managing your luggage effortlessly.

Where to stay in Charleston

• Charleston Historic District: This vibrant neighbourhood is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Located near attractions like Waterfront Park, Rainbow Row, and Marion Square, you'll find plenty of options for education and relaxation. The area features a public market and has local food and drink options, including distilleries and wineries. With nearby historic places and family-friendly beaches, Charleston Historic District offers a rich blend of cultural and recreational experiences.
• Downtown Charleston: A lively hub for families and those seeking outdoor adventures, Downtown Charleston boasts attractions such as Harborage at Ashley Marina and the Charleston City Marina, both suited for beach holidays. Explore the educational venues and the historic Aiken-Rhett House Museum, enriching your cultural experience. This neighbourhood also has a public market and nearby wineries and distilleries, making it a great spot for dining and leisure activities.
• West Ashley: Ideal for families and city explorers, West Ashley features notable attractions like Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site and Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, which are perfect for culture enthusiasts. The area includes urban parks such as Riverfront Park, suitable for outdoor activities and family outings. Shopping centres and local restaurants enhance the experience, while nearby wineries offer additional dining and drink options for a well-rounded stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Charleston

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This could also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is usually the most advantageous. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should the unexpected occur during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Charleston

The best value period to rent a car in Charleston is December, when prices are low and demand is quiet. January and February also offer lower demand, making them good options for budget-conscious renters. April tends to see high demand and slightly low prices, as many visitors flock to the area. Meanwhile, September is the most expensive month, with high demand, making rentals pricier during that time. August and March also have slightly high demand, contributing to elevated costs.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
February	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	65.8°F (18.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly Low
May	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
June	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly Low
July	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
August	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	69.6°F (20.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	60.1°F (15.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low