$52 Car Rental College of Charleston, SC

These College of Charleston insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 16, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental around College of Charleston

Renting a car around the College of Charleston offers great freedom and flexibility for exploring the area at your own pace. This historic university is surrounded by numerous attractions that you can easily visit with a rental vehicle. For instance, Marion Square and the Charleston Museum are both located less than 1 mile away, providing opportunities for city and cultural experiences. Additionally, the Charleston County Historic Courthouse, also nearby, enhances your historical exploration.

A rental car allows you to conveniently travel to popular destinations such as Downtown Charleston, where you can discover the Harborage at Ashley Marina and the Aiken-Rhett House Museum. You can also explore the charming Charleston Historic District, which features Waterfront Park and Rainbow Row, all within a short distance from the College. Whether you are traveling with family, managing luggage, or seeking a historical journey, having a car simplifies your travel plans and ensures you can visit multiple sites without the constraints of public transportation. Enjoy the ease of navigating the beautiful streets of Charleston with your rental car, making the most of your trip to this vibrant city.

Most popular car rentals near College of Charleston

• Midsize SUV: This car type is a popular choice among travelers around College of Charleston, accommodating up to 5 passengers and offering space for up to 3 large suitcases. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for comfort and flexibility while exploring the area. The midsize SUV provides ample room for both passengers and luggage, making it an ideal option for those planning to visit multiple attractions.
• Standard SUV: Another well-booked option, the standard SUV can also seat 5 travelers, though it accommodates up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is well-suited for couples, families, or groups who need a bit more space without going overboard. With its balance of comfort and practicality, it’s a great choice for navigating the scenic routes around College of Charleston.
• Compact: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the compact car option can fit up to 5 travelers and has room for up to 3 medium suitcases. This choice is ideal for those looking for a more economical option while still enjoying the freedom of a rental car. The compact size makes it easy to park and maneuver through the bustling streets of Charleston, allowing for a more convenient travel experience.

Top rated car suppliers near College of Charleston

• Budget: Budget has 2 rental locations conveniently situated less than 1 mile away from the College of Charleston. This supplier is a popular choice among travelers, particularly for their Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles, which offer ample space and comfort. Many customers appreciate the affordability and ease of access, making Budget a solid option for those looking to explore Charleston at their own pace.
• Avis: Avis operates 1 rental location less than 1 mile from the College of Charleston, providing easy access for tourists. Known for its reliable service, Avis is favored for its Midsize SUV and Standard SUV offerings, which cater well to both solo travelers and families. The proximity to the campus adds to its appeal, ensuring a smooth rental experience for visitors.
• Enterprise: Enterprise boasts 3 rental locations, with the nearest being 4 miles away from the College of Charleston. This supplier is recognized for its extensive selection of vehicles, including popular choices like Midsize SUV and Fullsize cars. Customers often highlight the friendly service and flexible rental options, making Enterprise a trustworthy option for travelers looking to navigate Charleston and its surrounding attractions.

Where to stay near College of Charleston

• Old Village: Located 4 miles from the College of Charleston, Old Village is ideal for those seeking an outdoor and eco-friendly experience. This charming neighborhood features attractions like the Patriots Point maritime museum and the serene Waterfront Park, perfect for family outings. Visitors can enjoy nearby beaches, parks, and a variety of food options, including local distilleries and wineries, making it a delightful place to stay while exploring the area.
• Scanlonville: Situated 3 miles from the College of Charleston, Scanlonville offers a vibrant outdoor and family-friendly atmosphere. With attractions such as the Patriots Point maritime museum and Waterfront Park, this neighborhood is great for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and culture. Visitors can indulge in local shopping or relax at nearby beaches and parks, while also enjoying options for dining and drinks from local distilleries and wineries.

10 tips to save on your car rental around College of Charleston

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you need a spacious SUV, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, filters on Expedia can help you discover the ideal 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 lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak 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 solid balance of 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 can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is usually the most advantageous choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—just remember to return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
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 unexpected costs and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on 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 necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car around College of Charleston

The best value period for renting a car near the College of Charleston is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. June through August also offer good options, as prices remain average while demand increases. However, April typically stands out as the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand. March and October can also be pricier, as demand tends to rise during these times.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	65.8°F (18.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
July	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
August	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
September	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	69.6°F (20.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	60.1°F (15.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
December	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average