$122 Car Rental Salem, SC

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Top Car Deals in Salem

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Compact SUV

Hyundai Kona
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Greenville, South Carolina, USA
Hyundai Kona

$122

includes taxes & fees
$91 per day
found 2 days ago
Compact SUV Hyundai Kona

Economy

Mitsubishi Mirage
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Greenville, South Carolina, USA
Mitsubishi Mirage

$127

includes taxes & fees
$95 per day
found 2 days ago
Economy Mitsubishi Mirage

Mini Van

Chrysler Pacifica
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Greenville, South Carolina, USA
Chrysler Pacifica

$134

includes taxes & fees
$101 per day
found 2 days ago
Mini Van Chrysler Pacifica

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
GREER, USA
Toyota Corolla

$134

includes taxes & fees
$101 per day
found 2 days ago
Midsize Toyota Corolla

Standard

Volkswagen Jetta
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Greenville, South Carolina, USA
Volkswagen Jetta

$136

includes taxes & fees
$103 per day
found 2 days ago
Standard Volkswagen Jetta

Fullsize

Nissan Altima
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Greenville, South Carolina, USA
Nissan Altima

$139

includes taxes & fees
$105 per day
found 2 days ago
Fullsize Nissan Altima

Premium Crossover

Dodge Durango
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Greenville, South Carolina, USA
Dodge Durango

$158

includes taxes & fees
$121 per day
found 2 days ago
Premium Crossover Dodge Durango

Special

Compact or larger
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Greer, South Carolina, USA
Compact or larger

$521

includes taxes & fees
$449 per day
found 2 days ago
Special Compact or larger

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Lowest prices found within the past 2 days. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Salem car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Salem

Renting a car in Salem, South Carolina, offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently visit nearby attractions such as Devils Fork State Park for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Lake Keowee, located just 7 miles away, provides a perfect setting for romantic outings and beach experiences. For family-friendly eco-adventures, Devils Fork Lake Jocassee is also in the vicinity, ensuring there's something for everyone.

The convenience of a rental car extends to exploring nearby cities like Seneca, which is 14 miles away, offering additional parks and scenic spots. Tamassee, only 3 miles from Salem, features both Lake Keowee and Devils Fork State Park, making it easy to enjoy diverse outdoor activities. For those traveling with luggage or planning a leisurely itinerary, a rental car simplifies your travel plans, allowing for easy luggage management. Whether you are seeking a romantic getaway, outdoor adventures, or family experiences, renting a car in Salem enhances your trip by providing the flexibility to explore all that the region has to offer.

Where to stay around Salem

  • Tamassee: Located only 3 miles from Salem, Tamassee is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic views. Popular attractions include Lake Keowee and Lake Jocassee, both perfect for beach outings and romantic getaways. For nature lovers, Devils Fork State Park offers stunning landscapes and various recreational activities. The area also features local food and drink options including wineries, making it a great spot for relaxation and exploration.
  • Seneca: Situated 14 miles from Salem, Seneca is a charming city known for its outdoor activities and scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy Lake Keowee, which is great for beach activities, or explore urban parks like Highpointe Lower Field and South Cove Park, perfect for family outings. The local dining scene includes several restaurants and wineries, providing delightful culinary experiences after a day of adventure.
  • Sapphire: About 15 miles from Salem, Sapphire is a picturesque destination celebrated for its romantic ambiance and outdoor scenery. Key highlights include Whisper Lake and Gorges State Park, both renowned for their stunning views and recreational options. Additionally, the area boasts nearby food and drink venues, including wineries and breweries, making it a wonderful choice for those looking to unwind while soaking in the natural beauty.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for cost savings, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary with demand, so reserving your vehicle well ahead of your trip is advisable. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower prices and better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Be sure to verify the age requirements before making your reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is often the most economical choice. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure to return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
  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 in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
  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.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Salem

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Salem

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Salem. 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 Salem

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $122.

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.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available
Our best deal of the day
$122
Our second best deal of the day
$127
Our third best deal of the day
$134
From the airport to your hotel
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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Salem?
You can find cheap car rentals in Salem from $17 a day with Budget's fullsize 2/4 door. Budget offers competitive rates, with fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $17 a day. Enterprise and Thrifty also provide great value, with options like a special from Enterprise starting at $19 a day, and a midsize 2 or 4 door from Thrifty also starting at $19 a day. Alamo Rent A Car and Avis are other reliable choices, with economy 2 or 4 door cars from Alamo starting at $23 a day, and fullsize 2 or 4 door cars from Avis also starting at $23 a day. Comparing these suppliers on Expedia can help you find car rental deals in Salem that fit your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Salem.
What are the best luxury car companies in Salem?
For luxury car rental in Salem, several providers offer premium options for enhanced comfort and style. Budget provides standard elite SUVs starting from $32 a day, and fullsize SUVs from $34 a day. Avis also features standard elite SUVs starting at $36 a day, and fullsize SUVs from $46 a day. Alamo Rent A Car offers premium crossovers starting from $40 a day, and fullsize SUVs from $41 a day. Enterprise has premium pickup regular cabs starting at $39 a day, and premium SUVs from $51 a day. These luxury vehicles often come with advanced features and provide a more refined driving experience for your trip to Salem. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Salem.
Can I rent a car one-way in Salem?
Yes, you can rent a car one-way in Salem, which is a convenient option for travelers planning to pick up their vehicle in Salem and drop it off in a different city. One-way car rental in Salem starts from $23 a day. Providers like Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise offer flexible one-way policies, making it easy to plan your journey without needing to return to your original pickup location. This flexibility is ideal for road trips or if your travel plans involve departing from a different airport or city. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Salem.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Salem?
Yes, round-trip car rentals are readily available in Salem, offering a cost-effective way to explore the area. Round-trip rentals in Salem start from $17 a day. Picking up and dropping off your rental car at the same location typically helps avoid additional one-way fees, making it a budget-friendly choice for exploring Salem and its surroundings. Major providers such as Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise offer wide availability for round-trip rentals, ensuring you have plenty of options to find a vehicle that suits your travel needs. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Salem.
What are the best car rentals in Salem?
Car rentals in Salem offer a wide variety of vehicle types to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door: Ideal for solo travelers or couples, these cars are fuel-efficient and easy to maneuver through city streets.
  • Midsize SUV: Offering more space and a higher driving position, midsize SUVs are great for families or small groups needing extra luggage capacity and comfort.
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door: A comfortable choice for longer drives, providing a good balance of space and fuel economy for couples or small families.
  • Special: These unique vehicles can offer a distinct driving experience, perfect for those looking for something different during their trip.
  • Compact SUV: Combining the benefits of a compact car with the versatility of an SUV, these are excellent for navigating both urban and scenic routes with ease.
Most rental cars in Salem come with automatic transmission, offering a smooth driving experience. Choosing the right car depends on your group size, luggage requirements, and planned activities. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Salem.
What are the best car rentals in Salem for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Salem for solo travelers are typically economy and compact classes, which are easy to park, fuel-efficient, and budget-friendly for exploring at your own pace.
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $23 a day—these cars fit up to 2 medium suitcases and are nimble for city navigation and finding parking spots.
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $21 a day—offering a bit more room for luggage with space for up to 3 medium suitcases, while still being easy to handle.
  • Compact SUV, starting from $23 a day—provides a higher driving position and more versatility for day trips, fitting up to 3 medium suitcases.
These options comfortably accommodate a solo traveler and their belongings, making them ideal for both urban exploration and scenic drives around Salem. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Salem.
What are the best car rentals in Salem for couples?
The best car rentals in Salem for couples offer a balance of comfort, space, and easy handling for two travelers.
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $19 a day—these cars provide comfortable seating for two and ample trunk space for up to 3 large suitcases, perfect for smooth cruising.
  • Compact SUV, starting from $23 a day—with a higher ride and versatility, compact SUVs fit up to 3 medium suitcases and are well-suited for day trips and exploring beyond the city.
Both options ensure a comfortable journey for couples, whether you're staying within Salem or venturing out on scenic drives. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Salem.
What are the best car rentals in Salem for families?
The best car rentals in Salem for families prioritize space, comfort, and convenience for everyone and their luggage.
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $24 a day—these vehicles seat up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases, making them a versatile choice for families.
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $23 a day—ideal for larger families, minivans can seat up to 8 people and accommodate up to 6 large suitcases, perfect for strollers and extensive luggage.
  • Fullsize SUV, starting from $34 a day—offering seating for up to 6 people and space for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, fullsize SUVs provide ample room and comfort for family adventures.
Thrifty is a popular choice among families for their car rental needs. For family trips to Salem, booking 4+ weeks ahead is advisable, especially for the June-July peak months, as larger vehicles can have lower availability during these busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Salem.
Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Salem?
Yes, you can find electric and hybrid car rental options in Salem through providers like Avis and Budget. Avis offers both electric and hybrid vehicles, with prices starting from $17 a day for either fuel type. Similarly, Budget provides electric and hybrid car rentals, also starting from $17 a day. These eco-friendly options are widely available on Expedia, allowing you to enjoy your trip to Salem with reduced fuel consumption.
What is the best time to book a car in Salem?
The best time to book a car rental in Salem to find competitive rates is typically during the quieter months, such as January, when demand is lower. During this period, rentals can start from as little as $23 a day for an economy 2 or 4 door car. Prices tend to be higher during the June-July peak months due to increased demand. Booking your car rental 3-4 weeks ahead of your travel dates can help you find better availability and more favorable pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation up to 24 hours before pickup, giving you the flexibility to book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Salem?
For car rental in Salem, you have excellent choices from major suppliers like Alamo Rent A Car, Enterprise, and Avis, each offering a range of vehicles to suit different travel plans. Alamo Rent A Car provides options such as economy 2 or 4 door cars, which are great for city driving and fuel efficiency, and midsize SUVs for more space and comfort. Enterprise offers unique special vehicles for a distinctive experience, alongside practical midsize 2 or 4 door cars. Avis features fullsize 2 or 4 door cars, ideal for longer journeys with more passengers, and mini passenger vans for larger groups or families needing extensive luggage capacity. Choosing the best car rental supplier in Salem depends on your specific needs, whether you prioritize budget, space, or a particular driving experience. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Salem.
What are good day trip destinations from Salem by rental car?
Exploring the natural beauty surrounding Salem is easy with a rental car, offering scenic day trips for families, couples, and solo adventurers. For these excursions, a midsize SUV or standard SUV provides ample space and comfort, especially if you are carrying gear for outdoor activities, while a compact or midsize car offers good value for couples or solo travelers. Consider these destinations for your day trips:
  • Lake Keowee, located just 9 miles from Salem, is perfect for water activities and scenic views.
  • Lake Jocassee, also 9 miles away, offers pristine waters and a tranquil setting for nature enthusiasts.
  • Devils Fork State Park, only 6 miles from Salem, is an excellent choice for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
  • Lake Glenville, about 27 miles away, provides a beautiful mountain lake experience in North Carolina.
  • Lake Hartwell, approximately 36 miles from Salem, is a large reservoir popular for fishing and boating.
When planning your day trip, remember to fuel up your rental car before heading out and pack essentials like water and snacks. These destinations are easily accessible by car, making your journey smooth and enjoyable. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Salem.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Salem?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Salem. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Salem?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Salem?
Budget car rental in Salem can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $122. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Salem?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Salem. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Salem car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Salem?
To rent a car in Salem, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Salem car rental?
If you need to cancel your Salem car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Salem with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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