$49 Car Rental Columbia, SC

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Columbia

Renting a car in Columbia, South Carolina, offers you the freedom and flexibility to discover the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for road trippers, family travelers, and adventurers who value convenience. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy flexible travel plans while exploring Columbia's key attractions. Visit the historic University of South Carolina for a taste of local culture, or head to the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center for business events. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a trip to Williams Brice Stadium to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of local games.

A rental car also facilitates exploration of popular neighborhoods such as Downtown Columbia, where you can find the University and the convention center nearby. The Vista and Rosewood neighborhoods offer additional cultural experiences with attractions like the Koger Center for the Arts and the South Carolina State Fairgrounds. Having a rental vehicle allows you to navigate these areas with ease, ensuring you maximize your time and enjoyment while experiencing the outdoor scenery and romance that Columbia has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Columbia

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers with room for 3 large suitcases. Midsize SUVs offer a good balance of space and comfort, making them ideal for those looking to explore the scenic beauty of Columbia at their own pace while ensuring that luggage can be managed easily.
• Fullsize: Perfectly suited for families and groups, the fullsize car option fits 5 travelers and can handle up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it a versatile choice for those planning to travel with extra gear or luggage, allowing for a comfortable road trip experience without the worry of space constraints.
• Compact: A compact car is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families, accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for 3 medium suitcases. Its smaller size makes it particularly well-suited for navigating the city of Columbia, allowing for easier parking and maneuverability while providing an economical choice for those looking to keep travel costs low.

Top rated car suppliers in Columbia

• Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice among travelers in Columbia, boasting 2 rental locations throughout the area. Known for its reliable service, Hertz offers a selection of well-maintained vehicles, with Midsize and Fullsize cars being the most booked options. Travelers appreciate the convenience and flexibility of renting from Hertz, allowing them to explore Columbia's attractions at their own pace.
• Enterprise: With over 5 rental locations in Columbia, Enterprise stands out for its extensive availability and customer-focused service. Most travelers opt for Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, highlighting the comfort and space they provide. Enterprise is recognized for its friendly staff and smooth rental process, making it a favored choice for both leisure and business travelers looking to navigate the city and surrounding areas efficiently.

Where to go in Columbia

• Downtown Columbia: A vibrant neighborhood, Downtown Columbia offers a mix of culture, family-friendly activities, and outdoor experiences. Key attractions include the historic University of South Carolina, Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, and Benedict College. Visitors can explore educational venues and recreational areas, making it an ideal spot for culture vacations, particularly during peak months of March, August, and October.
• The Vista: Known for its artistic vibe, The Vista is another captivating neighborhood in Columbia. It features attractions such as the University of South Carolina and Koger Center for the Arts, perfect for culture enthusiasts. The area boasts education facilities and recreational spaces, providing an engaging environment for families and outdoor lovers. Peak visitation occurs in March, August, and October, making these months the best time to experience its offerings.
• Rosewood: Rosewood is a charming neighborhood that combines culture, sports, and outdoor experiences. Notable attractions include the University of South Carolina, Williams Brice Stadium, and South Carolina State Fairgrounds. This area is excellent for sports fans, families, and those looking to enjoy the outdoors. Similar to the other neighborhoods, peak visits happen in March, August, and October, making these months ideal for travelers.

10 tips to save on your Columbia car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, use the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental price and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars offer a favorable balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium options—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you need to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the best choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel policies, which can be suitable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs an additional surcharge, though it may be justified by the added convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and offers peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, look for 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 Columbia

The best value time to rent a car in and around Columbia is December, when prices are slightly low and demand is also manageable. January and February follow closely, featuring low demand and slightly low prices, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers. However, April and May see a rise in both prices and demand, with May being the most expensive month overall. June through July are also busy periods, as demand peaks during the summer months.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
April	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	71.8°F (22.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	75.6°F (24.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low

Car rental prices in Columbia

Find car rentals in Columbia, South Carolina from as low as $49* a day on Expedia. See all the latest deals for convenient car travel around the capital city, complete with pricing and booking information. Columbia rental car prices vary based on the car class, time of year, and more. In summer, the city is filled with travelers looking to enjoy the lively atmosphere and live music available all throughout South Carolina's capital, making it more expensive. Keep university dates in mind, too: new and returning students will head back to the city after summer break, often driving up car rental prices for a few weeks in the fall.

Finding some of the best deals for cheap car rentals in Columbia

Finding cheap rental cars in Columbia in 2026 is easy thanks to Expedia: compare available prices across providers and look out for a "Great deal", which shows you some of the lowest prices currently offered on the website for Columbia rental cars. You can also filter your personalized search results by your desired price range. Winters in Columbia are mild, so you can save even more on your vehicle rental in Columbia by booking in the winter months when fewer tourists are around. Plus, all the warm southern hospitality will keep you cozy, anyway.

Best car rental companies in Columbia

No single rental car company is perfect for everyone, but on Expedia, you can browse offers for Columbia rental cars from excellent providers: Alamo, Enterprise and National. Search by company or filter and sort to see car rental offers from the suppliers recommended the most. That way, you can find the best car rental company in Columbia for your trip. Some companies offer more cheap car rental deals, while others have greater offerings for sports car rental in Columbia – choose what works for you.

Best places to rent a car in Columbia

Head straight from the airplane to the highway with airport car rental deals that can be picked up directly from the Columbia Metropolitan Airport, which is less than seven miles from the city center. Expedia allows you to view the results of your customized Columbia rental car search on a map of Columbia to help you plan your trip from the moment you arrive. Use the map view and filter by distance and location to find other pick-up and drop-off points throughout the city. Whether you need a car rental near University Hill or want a car hire in Columbia's Downtown, Expedia can show you the most convenient offers.

Columbia car rental types

For your car rental in Columbia, you can go for passenger van car rental that fits all the kids for the family road trip, or a pickup car rental in Columbia to explore nearby Sesquicentennial State Park. If you're staying in the city, compact rental cars in Columbia can make getting around town easy. Celebrating a special event in the heart of this historic southern city? Then opt for a luxury car rental in Columbia to make your trip even more special.

Advice on car rental in Columbia as an American

To rent a car in Columbia, you'll need a valid driver's license and have to be at least 21 years old. Don't forget to bring a credit card, too – you can't always rent a car with a debit card. If you're under the age of 25, you may have to pay a bit of a premium, but don't worry too much: you can still score cheap car rental deals in Columbia with Expedia. Another common issue is cancellation policies: Expedia makes it easy to find car rentals with flexible or penalty-free cancellation policies, so there is no need to second-guess yourself when you find a deal on your next Columbia car rental. Plus, Expedia's search results show you which providers offer helpful options, such as the ability to reserve a rental before having to pay or provide credit card information.

Benefits of booking a car rental in Columbia with Expedia

With a rental car in Columbia, you don't have to worry about how you're getting from your hotel to the Columbia Canal, Museum of Art, or any other attraction, which broadens your options when it comes to booking travel and accommodations. You can jump into your own rental car and enjoy the shopping, restaurants, and entertainment in downtown Columbia or visit USC's campus on your own time. A rental vehicle will also allow you to take advantage of Columbia's natural surroundings. You'll find Expedia car rental deals that you can't find anywhere else. You can also find some of the best car rental deals in Columbia by using Expedia's extensive search filters. Plus, plans change. Expedia makes it easy to find car rentals with flexible or penalty-free cancellation policies, so there is no need to second-guess yourself when you find a deal on your next Columbia car rental.