$41 Car Rental Charleston, SC

These Charleston insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 28, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Charleston

Renting a car in Charleston, South Carolina, offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as Waterfront Park, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, and Fort Sumter, all of which are easily accessible. This option is especially appealing for families, as it allows for easy luggage management and provides space for strollers and other gear. You can also enjoy outdoor and beach-related experiences, particularly at locations like James Island, which features Sunrise Park Beach and James Island County Park.

Having a car makes it simple to explore popular neighborhoods like the Charleston Historic District and Downtown Charleston, where you can discover attractions such as Rainbow Row and the Aiken-Rhett House Museum. No need to rely on public transportation; with your own vehicle, you can create flexible travel plans and make the most of your time in Charleston. Whether you're visiting for culture, family outings, or outdoor adventures, a rental car enhances your experience by providing the convenience you need to discover all that this beautiful city has to offer.

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 established itself as a popular choice among travelers in Charleston, offering two rental locations throughout the area. Known for its selection of vehicles, the most booked options include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, which provide ample space for both passengers and luggage. Budget's convenient locations make it easy for visitors to pick up and drop off their rentals, enhancing the overall travel experience.
• Enterprise: With four rental locations in Charleston, Enterprise stands out for its commitment to customer service and a diverse fleet. The Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles are the top choices among travelers, catering to various needs and preferences. Enterprise is praised for its friendly staff and efficient service, making it a reliable option for those looking to explore Charleston and its surroundings comfortably.
• Avis: Avis offers two rental locations in and around Charleston, providing travelers with convenient access to their vehicles. The most popular rentals include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, ideal for families or groups needing extra space. Avis is recognized for its well-maintained vehicles and straightforward rental process, making it a solid choice for tourists wanting to enjoy the flexibility of driving in Charleston.

Where to stay in Charleston

• Charleston Historic District: This vibrant neighborhood offers a family-friendly experience with outdoor activities and city-themed attractions. Travelers can enjoy nearby landmarks such as Waterfront Park, Rainbow Row, and Marion Square, all easily accessible for exploration. The area is also known for its lively public market and local dining options, including alcohol distilleries and wineries, making it a perfect base for tourists looking to immerse themselves in Charleston's rich culture and history.
• Downtown Charleston: A hub for families and outdoor enthusiasts, Downtown Charleston features educational venues and an arena entertainment facility. Key points of interest include the Harborage at Ashley Marina and Charleston City Marina, ideal for those seeking adventure. The historic Aiken-Rhett House Museum offers a glimpse into the past, while the nearby public market and various wineries and distilleries provide a taste of local flavors, ensuring a memorable stay in the heart of the city.
• West Ashley: Known for its family-oriented atmosphere and shopping options, West Ashley is home to attractions such as Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site and Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, both rich in culture and history. Riverfront Park serves as a lovely urban space for outdoor activities. With various restaurants and wineries close by, this neighborhood is a great choice for travelers looking to balance relaxation and exploration during their visit to Charleston.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to 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 wise to reserve your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower rates and benefit from greater availability, especially during peak 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 cars strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on 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 preferred option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards as payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek 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 to rent a car in and around Charleston is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. June also offers slightly low prices but with moderately high demand, making it a popular choice. However, April usually sees the highest prices and moderately high demand, as it marks the beginning of the busy season. March tends to be slightly high in both pricing and demand, setting the stage for April's peak.

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	Moderately High	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	Slightly High
August	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
October	69.6°F (20.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
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

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 $41.

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