Car Rental at Charleston Intl. Airport (CHS) from $76

Reasons to book a car rental at Charleston International Airport

Renting a car at Charleston International Airport is an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore the rich history and scenic beauty of the area. With a rental car, you enjoy the freedom to discover attractions at your own pace, whether you're a historic site explorer, beachgoer, or outdoor enthusiast. Conveniently, the airport's location allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families and adventure seekers alike.

Within a short drive from the airport, you can visit the Medical University of South Carolina, located 9 miles away, or enjoy a show at the North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center, just 1 mile from the airport. For outdoor enthusiasts, Riverfront Park, situated 4 miles away, offers a beautiful urban escape. Additionally, exploring neighborhoods like Downtown Charleston, 9 miles away, and West Ashley, 5 miles away, provides access to local gems such as the College of Charleston and Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. A rental car allows you to maximize your experience in this charming region, making every moment count on your trip.

Most popular car rentals near Charleston International Airport

• Midsize SUV: This option is highly popular among travelers, accommodating up to 5 passengers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. Midsize SUVs are ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a comfortable and spacious ride. Their versatility makes them perfect for exploring the attractions around Charleston airport at your own pace, providing both freedom and convenience for your travel plans.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is a favorite for groups and families, comfortably fitting 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This choice offers ample space for luggage and personal items, making it a great pick for those planning to explore the historic sites and outdoor activities around Charleston airport. Enjoy the flexibility of having a spacious vehicle to accommodate your travel needs.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, or small groups, the standard SUV fits 5 travelers with room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option strikes a balance between comfort and utility, making it a solid choice for those wanting to explore the area around Charleston airport. Its size is perfect for navigating both the city streets and the scenic routes that Charleston has to offer.

Top rated car suppliers near Charleston International Airport

• Enterprise: Located 0.2 miles away from Charleston airport, Enterprise is known for its friendly service and has an overall rating of 7.4 out of 10. Travelers appreciate the helpful staff and the wide selection of vehicles available. The most booked cars with this supplier include the Midsize SUV and Premium SUV, making it a great choice for those seeking comfort and space during their travels.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is conveniently located just 0.1 miles from Charleston airport. With an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10, this supplier is recognized for its friendly service. Many travelers opt for Alamo for their Midsize SUV and Compact SUV rentals, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable driving experience while exploring the Charleston area.
• Budget: Budget has a rental location situated 0.1 miles away from Charleston airport, offering convenient access for travelers. While specific ratings are not mentioned, Budget is well-regarded for providing a variety of vehicle options, with Midsize SUV and Standard SUV being popular choices. This supplier is a suitable option for those looking for reliable vehicles at competitive rates.

Where to go near Charleston International Airport

• Downtown Charleston: Located 9 miles away from Charleston International Airport, Downtown Charleston is a vibrant neighborhood known for its rich history and cultural experiences. Visitors flock here primarily in March and June to July. Key attractions include the historic College of Charleston, the modern Marion Square, and the Upper King Design District. This area offers a mix of activities suitable for family outings, outdoor adventures, and urban exploration, making it an excellent choice for a stay.
• West Ashley: Situated 5 miles from Charleston International Airport, West Ashley is an inviting neighborhood perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Peak visitation occurs in March to April and July. Highlights include the North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center, the Medical University of South Carolina, and Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. With a range of shopping options and urban parks, West Ashley provides a well-rounded experience for travelers seeking both leisure and culture.
• Cannonborough Elliotborough: Just 8 miles from Charleston International Airport, Cannonborough Elliotborough offers a blend of outdoor activities and family-friendly options. Popular during March and June to July, this neighborhood features the Medical University of South Carolina, the Upper King Design District, and Marion Square. With its vibrant shopping areas and cultural attractions, this neighborhood is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the local scene while enjoying a city vacation.

9 tips to save on your Charleston International Airport car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's usually wise to secure your CHS car rental as early as possible to enjoy lower rates and a wider selection. Aiming to finalize your booking 1-3 months ahead of your trip is recommended, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—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 finalizing your reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, such as economy or compact cars, tend to be more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most favorable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of any unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan on spending a significant amount of time on the road, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Charleston International Airport

The best time to rent a car from Charleston Airport is January and February, when prices and demand are both slightly low. These months offer the best value for travelers. March to May can also be decent options, as prices and demand remain average. However, July sees the highest demand and prices, making it the most expensive month. June and August also experience slightly high pricing and demand, which can be less favorable for renters.

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