$55 Car Rental Charleston, IL

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Charleston

Renting a car in Charleston offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in cultural experiences. With a rental car, you can easily reach attractions such as Fox Ridge State Park, which is perfect for adventure and scenic views, located right in the area of Charleston. Additionally, the historic Lincoln Log Cabin is a short drive of 8 miles away, offering a glimpse into local culture. If you're traveling with family, visiting Mattoon Peterson Park, located 10 miles from Charleston, provides an excellent urban park experience for all ages.

A car rental also allows you to venture beyond Charleston to nearby cities like Mattoon, just 11 miles away, where you can find attractions such as Rockome Gardens. You can also explore Arcola, which is 15 miles away, and Lerna, located only 8 miles from Charleston, both featuring unique sites that enhance your travel experience. With a rental car, managing luggage and planning your itinerary becomes much simpler, making it an ideal choice for your trip.

Where to stay around Charleston

• Mattoon: Located 11 miles from Charleston, Mattoon offers a charming experience for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. Key attractions include the historic Lincoln Log Cabin and the picturesque Fox Ridge State Park, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Mattoon also features delightful food and drink options, including wineries and restaurants, making it a great spot for a romantic getaway.
• Arcola: Situated 15 miles from Charleston, Arcola is perfect for those interested in city-themed and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the urban charm of Rockome Gardens, which provides a family-friendly atmosphere. The Hippie Memorial serves as a unique cultural landmark, while Mattoon Peterson Park offers additional outdoor enjoyment. The local dining scene features various restaurants and wineries, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience.
• Ashmore: Just 9 miles from Charleston, Ashmore is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The area boasts beautiful attractions like the historic Lincoln Log Cabin and the breathtaking Fox Ridge State Park, both offering unique opportunities for exploration. Visitors can also marvel at the World's Largest Pitchfork, a quirky landmark. Ashmore is surrounded by scenic forests and lakes, making it an ideal destination for those who love nature.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by specifying vehicle type and features. Whether you need a spacious SUV, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car to save money, the filters on Expedia can help you identify the perfect 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to secure more favorable rates and enjoy a greater selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, 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 could also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you’ll need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most convenient option. Other rentals may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: While you may incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, the added convenience can often justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payments.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unexpected events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a vehicle.

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 $55.

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