Charleston Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Charleston

Renting a car in Charleston, West Virginia, provides you with the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the West Virginia State Capitol Building, which offers rich cultural experiences, and the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences, perfect for art enthusiasts. For outdoor lovers, the Kanawha State Forest presents a beautiful national park ideal for adventure and scenic views.

A rental car also allows you to conveniently explore nearby cities like Cross Lanes, Hurricane, and South Charleston. In Cross Lanes, you can check out the West Virginia Junior College-Charleston and Shawnee Sports Complex, while Hurricane features the tranquil Teays Valley Lakes and Valley Park. South Charleston offers Jefferson Park and additional cultural experiences at the Clay Center. Whether you're travelling with family or seeking outdoor adventures, a rental car ensures easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, making it the ideal choice for your Charleston journey.

Most popular car rentals in Charleston

• Midsize: This car type is a popular choice for groups of up to 5 travellers and can accommodate up to 3 large suitcases. Its spacious interior makes it ideal for couples and families, providing the comfort needed for longer drives while also ensuring ample room for luggage, making it a great option for exploring Charleston and its surrounding areas.
• Economy: Perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families, the economy car accommodates 5 travellers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for those looking to navigate Charleston economically, offering a balance of comfort and fuel efficiency, allowing you to explore the city without breaking the bank.
• Compact: The compact car is another excellent choice for groups of up to 5 travellers, offering space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This type is ideal for solo adventurers or couples who appreciate manoeuvrability and ease of parking, especially in urban settings like Charleston. Its manageable size and efficiency make it a reliable option for your travel needs.

Top rated car suppliers in Charleston

• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out as a top choice for car rentals in Charleston, boasting two rental locations in the area. Travellers appreciate the flexibility it offers, making it easy to explore local attractions at your own pace. The most booked vehicles with Enterprise are Compact and Midsize SUVs, which are perfect for families or groups requiring extra space. Customers often commend the excellent service and well-maintained cars, ensuring a pleasant rental experience.
• Budget: Budget operates one rental location in Charleston, providing a convenient option for those looking for cost-effective car rental solutions. Midsize SUVs and Economy cars are the most popular choices among Budget customers, making it an ideal option for travellers seeking balance between comfort and affordability. Many renters note the straightforward booking process and friendly staff, enhancing the overall rental experience.
• Avis: Avis also has a presence in Charleston with one rental location, catering to those in need of reliable transportation. The company offers a selection of Midsize and Economy vehicles, appealing to both solo travellers and families alike. Avis is known for its efficient service and clean vehicles, which contribute to a hassle-free rental experience. Customers appreciate the ability to adjust their travel plans easily while enjoying the freedom that comes with having a rental car.

Where to stay in Charleston

• Hurricane: Located close to Charleston, Hurricane is perfect for families and those seeking outdoor experiences. Enjoy activities at local venues such as the golf course and recreation park. Key points of interest include Teays Valley Lakes, known for its scenic beauty and romantic atmosphere, and Valley Park, an urban park ideal for family outings. For refreshments, visit nearby wineries and vineyards, which offer delightful local beverages.
• Cross Lanes: A city that caters to families and couples alike, Cross Lanes features attractions like the Shawnee Sports Complex and Nitro City Park, both excellent for outdoor activities. The area also boasts a variety of dining options, including restaurants and alcohol wineries. Don't miss the West Virginia Junior College-Charleston, a cultural spot that adds to the city's charm.
• Kanawha City: This neighbourhood near Charleston is suitable for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With access to shopping centres and an arena entertainment facility, it's perfect for those looking to enjoy local amenities. Key attractions include the historic West Virginia State Capitol Building and the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences, both enriching cultural experiences. The West Virginia State Museum also offers a glimpse into the region's history.

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 economical car for budget-friendly travel, use the filters on Expedia to find the ideal match 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars tend to be more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. 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—may not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This option is typically the most advantageous. Others might provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can also be suitable; just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind if anything unexpected occurs during your travels. Adding car rental insurance while booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on undertaking 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 required to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Charleston

The best value period to rent a car in and around Charleston is September, when prices are slightly low and demand is high. April also offers a quieter option with lower demand and slightly low prices. However, June through July tend to be the most expensive months, as they see high demand along with slightly high prices. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	32.7°F (0.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	36.7°F (2.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
April	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
May	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
July	74.7°F (23.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	67.5°F (19.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly Low
October	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
December	38.8°F (3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average