$54 Car Rental Charleston, SC

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Charleston

Renting a car in Charleston offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this charming city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as the scenic Waterfront Park, the historic Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, and the culturally rich Fort Sumter, all located within the area. Families and outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the ease of managing luggage and travel plans, allowing for spontaneous stops and adventures. The Charleston Historic District, featuring iconic sites like Rainbow Row and Marion Square, is easily accessible by car, as is Downtown Charleston, home to the Harborage at Ashley Marina and the Aiken-Rhett House Museum. Additionally, a trip to James Island highlights beautiful spots like Sunrise Park Beach and James Island County Park. Whether traveling with family or seeking beach-related experiences, renting a car enhances your exploration of Charleston, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey through this historic city and its picturesque surroundings.

Most popular car rentals in Charleston

• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is a popular choice among travelers in Charleston, accommodating up to 5 passengers and 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for couples, families, or groups looking for a spacious ride that provides the flexibility to explore Charleston’s attractions comfortably. With ample room for both passengers and luggage, this option is ideal for those planning a versatile, adventure-filled trip.
• Compact: The Compact car option also accommodates up to 5 travelers but offers the capacity for 3 medium suitcases, making it a practical choice for solo travelers, couples, or small families. It's a fantastic option for navigating Charleston with ease, providing a balance of convenience and efficiency. Whether you are planning short trips or longer excursions, the Compact car offers a great solution for your travel needs.
• Midsize SUV: For those needing a bit more space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent choice, accommodating up to 5 passengers and up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is ideal for families, couples, or small groups who require extra room for luggage and comfort during their travels. With its spacious interior, the Midsize SUV allows for a relaxing driving experience while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Charleston.

Top rated car suppliers in Charleston

• Budget: Budget has 2 rental locations in the Charleston area, making it a convenient option for travelers. Known for its reliability, Budget frequently sees Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles as the most booked choices. This supplier is favored for its competitive pricing and straightforward rental process, offering flexibility for your travel plans.
• Enterprise: With 4 rental locations in Charleston, Enterprise provides a robust selection of vehicles and is popular among travelers. Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars are the top choices here, reflecting a strong preference for spacious options. Customers appreciate Enterprise for its excellent customer service and efficient rental experience, allowing you to make the most of your trip.
• Avis: Avis operates 2 rental locations in the Charleston area and is known for its quality vehicles. The most booked options are Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, catering to various travel needs. Avis is recognized for its user-friendly rental process and well-maintained cars, making it a trusted choice for those exploring Charleston.

Where to stay in Charleston

• Charleston Historic District: Renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor experiences, Charleston Historic District offers easy access to notable attractions such as Waterfront Park, Rainbow Row, and Marion Square. This vibrant neighborhood features a mix of educational venues and public markets, making it perfect for a city-themed getaway. Travelers can enjoy nearby beaches and historic sites, along with a variety of food and drink options, including local wineries and distilleries.
• Downtown Charleston: A hub for families and outdoor enthusiasts, Downtown Charleston is home to attractions like Harborage at Ashley Marina and Charleston City Marina, ideal for adventure seekers. With a rich cultural backdrop, highlighted by the Aiken-Rhett House Museum, this area also offers various educational facilities and public markets. The proximity to beaches and local distilleries enhances the overall experience for visitors seeking a city-themed vacation.
• West Ashley: Known for its family-oriented vibe and outdoor activities, West Ashley features key attractions such as Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site and Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, perfect for culture lovers. This neighborhood provides ample shopping opportunities at local centers and malls, alongside beautiful urban parks like Riverfront Park. With nearby wineries and restaurants, West Ashley is a great choice for those looking to immerse themselves in both nature and local culture.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for better affordability, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover 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 reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to secure lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between 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 models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 for renting a car in Charleston is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. June also offers slightly low prices but sees moderately high demand as summer begins. In contrast, April tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand and elevated prices. This trend continues into July, which also experiences slightly high prices and demand, making it a busy time for rentals.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Charleston

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Charleston into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Charleston and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Charleston

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Charleston. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Charleston

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $54.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals