$68 Car Rental Downtown Charleston, SC

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Charleston

Renting a car in Downtown Charleston offers the freedom to explore the area's rich history, vibrant culinary scene, and beautiful outdoor spaces at your own pace. This flexibility is especially appealing for families and travelers with luggage, as it allows for easy management of belongings while visiting key attractions such as the historic College of Charleston, located right in Downtown, and Marion Square, just 0.2 miles away. Entertainment seekers will appreciate the proximity to the Charleston Gaillard Center, situated 0.5 miles from Downtown, making it convenient for family outings.

A rental car also facilitates exploration of nearby neighborhoods like the Charleston Historic District, which is 0.6 miles away and features notable sites such as Waterfront Park and Rainbow Row. Additionally, the trendy Cannonborough Elliotborough neighborhood is only 0.5 miles from Downtown, showcasing the Upper King Design District and local culture. Harleston Village, located 0.4 miles away, is home to more attractions that enhance your Charleston experience. With a rental car, you can navigate the city and surrounding areas easily, ensuring that you make the most of your visit.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Charleston

• Midsize SUV: A popular choice for families, couples, or small groups, the midsize SUV comfortably fits 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is ideal for those looking to explore the rich history and culinary delights of Downtown Charleston at their own pace, ensuring ample space for both passengers and luggage.
• Fullsize: The fullsize option is well-suited for families or larger groups, accommodating 5 travelers with the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for visitors wanting to enjoy the various attractions in and around Downtown Charleston, providing the freedom to travel comfortably and conveniently.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV fits 5 travelers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle offers a good balance of space and comfort, making it a great option for those seeking to experience the sights and culinary offerings of Downtown Charleston while managing their luggage effectively.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Charleston

• Budget: With 2 rental locations in and around Downtown Charleston, Budget provides excellent flexibility for travelers looking to explore the area at their own pace. Popular choices among customers include the Midsize SUV and Fullsize, making it a great option for families or groups needing extra space for luggage.
• Avis: Located conveniently in Downtown Charleston, Avis offers a streamlined car rental experience. Their most booked vehicles include the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV, perfect for those who want a comfortable ride while navigating the charming streets of Charleston and beyond.
• Enterprise: With 3 rental locations, the nearest being 4 miles away from Downtown Charleston, Enterprise is a reliable choice for travelers. They feature a diverse selection of vehicles, with popular options like the Midsize SUV and Fullsize Van, ideal for larger parties or those needing additional cargo space.

Where to go around Downtown Charleston

• Charleston Historic District: Located 0.6 miles from Downtown Charleston, this vibrant neighborhood is perfect for family and outdoor activities. Popular attractions include Waterfront Park, ideal for relaxation, and Rainbow Row, a historic site showcasing local culture. Marion Square offers a modern space for city gatherings. Visitor numbers peak in March and from June to July, making it a great time to explore the public market and nearby beaches.
• Cannonborough Elliotborough: Situated 0.5 miles away from Downtown Charleston, this neighborhood is known for its outdoor and family experiences. Key highlights include the Medical University of South Carolina, which reflects the area's cultural heritage, and the Upper King Design District, a hub for shopping. Marion Square is also accessible and suitable for city activities. Peak tourist seasons occur in March and June to July, making it an ideal time to visit.
• Harleston Village: Located 0.4 miles from Downtown Charleston, Harleston Village is a charming area that offers outdoor and cultural experiences. Notable sites include the College of Charleston, a historic institution, and the Old Jail, which adds to the area’s rich history. Marion Square is nearby, providing a modern gathering spot. Like the other neighborhoods, peak travel seasons happen in March and June to July, enhancing your visit.

10 tips to save on your Downtown Charleston car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices fluctuate based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower rates and have a wider selection, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically cost less to rent and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good 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 could 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 car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can work too; just make sure to return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worthwhile for the convenience it offers.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of 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 Downtown Charleston

The best value period to rent a car in and around Downtown Charleston is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This calm stretch allows for quieter travel experiences. Following that, March offers average prices and demand, making it another reasonable choice. However, by April, prices rise as demand increases, marking it as the most expensive month for rentals. June through August see high demand and slightly high prices, further emphasizing the peak travel season.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
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	Slightly Low	Average
June	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
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	Average	Average
December	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average