How to find a cheap car rental deal in Charleston
Need a cheap rental car in Charleston? With an average price of $95 a day, big savings are just around the corner. Whether you're after a small ride, a spacious SUV, or something in between, we compare all the best deals to help you book smart.
$65 is the cheapest daily price listed for a rental in Charleston.
Staying a little longer? Pick up a weekly rental from $266 and squeeze in a few road trips.
Timing is everything when it comes to finding the best price on a Charleston car hire. Try booking around three weeks before you go.
Check out the offers available with Budget, Avis and Alamo. They're some of the most well-known providers in the city.
Check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Charleston car rental policy, whether with Budget or a different supplier. Some may leave it out of the standard package and offer it as an extra.
Booking one-way could snag you a cheaper rate on your rental. Providers sometimes offer lower prices when vehicles need to be moved between branches. Just click 'Return car to a different location' when searching the cars for rent in Charleston.
Skip the hidden fees by choosing a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Start and end your trip with a full tank, and only pay for what you actually use.
Hit the highway without tracking every mile and racking up extra charges. Go to the 'Policies' filter and choose 'Unlimited mileage' to find a ride that lets you explore further.
Best value car rental options right now
You'll find the best value with this company, with average prices at $69 a day.
Next in line, this provider offers daily rates of around $86.
The third option won't break the bank either. You'll pay roughly $72 a day with this supplier.
If you're having trouble deciding what kind of ride you need, consider something from the Premium rental category. It's the most frequently booked car type in Charleston.
Flying to Charleston? Think about an airport pick-up
Keep arrival day hassle-free by picking up a car rental at Yeager Airport. If you're flying to Charleston through this hub, simply collect your ride after landing and roll out. The drive to the city center is about 6 miles and takes around 15 minutes.
Compare car rental types in Charleston
Small: These cheap rental cars in Charleston may be small in size, but they're big where it counts. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're easy to drive, fuel efficient, and just the thing for city driving.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine space, fuel efficiency and comfort. Easy to maneuver around cities and roomy enough for longer drives, they're a reliable pick for most journeys.
Large: Long drives fly by in this Charleston car hire category. Also known as full-size, they're built with bigger engines for better driving. The extra space and comfort make them a top choice for groups of friends and families.
SUV: SUVs are made for plans that change mid-journey. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for urban streets and country backroads alike.
Van: Choose this category of vehicle when you want a car for rent in Charleston that makes light work of heavy loads. Featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're built to carry more, whether that's supplies, baggage or a bunch of your favorite people.
Insurance and optional extras
Choosing excess insurance for your Charleston car rental lets you drive with confidence. It protects you from paying a hefty excess fee in case of theft or damage. Insurance policies aren't the same across all rental providers, so compare before you book.
Travel smarter when you rent a car in Charleston by adding some nifty extras. Think things like a navigation system to make wrong turns a thing of the past, or reverse cameras that'll help you park like a pro.
Good to know
The minimum age to rent a vehicle in the United States is generally 21 years old. However rules can vary by provider, so always go over your rental company's terms to make sure you meet the requirements.
Add a car seat to your Charleston car rental booking if you're bringing the kids. Requirements change from one place to another, but using a child seat suited to their size and age is always the safest choice.
You'll need some documents when collecting your car. As a rule, bring a valid driver's license, a credit card with enough balance for the deposit (debit cards usually aren't accepted), and additional photo ID. Your booking will outline the exact requirements.
Driving in the United States can take some adjustment if it's your first time. Be aware that traffic travels on the right side of the road.
Make sure you stay within the local speed limits. Most of the time that's around 25mph in built-up areas and 70mph or so on highways, unless signed otherwise.
In the United States, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. If you think you'll be drinking, leave the driving to someone else or choose another way to travel.
Try to travel outside heavy traffic periods for a smoother run in general. 5pm is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.
The United States dollar (USD) is the currency you'll be using for day-to-day purchases and outings. Pay with a credit or debit card when you can, and keep a little cash for places that don't accept electronic payment.
English is the language most often spoken across the country.
Best hotels in Charleston for drivers
Spend less time looking for a parking spot and more time enjoying the comfort of Fairfield Inn & Suites Charleston. Around 3 miles from central Charleston, it comes with parking, a laundry and express check-in.
Sonesta ES Suites Charleston gets the details right with parking and features like a garden and air conditioning. It's roughly 1 mile from the city center.
Explore the full lineup of hotels in Charleston and choose the stay that suits your trip. Filters make it easy to tailor your search to what you need — like 'Parking,' 'Valet parking,' or 'Outdoor parking.' There's even an 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to find hotels with charging access.
You're ready to make some memories now you've found a car rental deal in Charleston and your hotel. From Charleston City Parks to East End Historical District and Culture Center, you'll never run out of things to do here.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Charleston
You'll be well looked after at Delta Hotels Ashland Downtown and Quality Inn, two reliable accommodation options with parking in Ironville.
Or drive out to Meads after picking up your cheap car rental in Charleston. It's about 60 miles west and packs in highlights like Rural King.
Take it easy after a day spent exploring Meads at Delta Hotels Ashland Downtown or Quality Inn. These hotels cater to guests with cars.
Extend your journey and road-trip it to Cincinnati, about 160 miles west of Charleston. First, swing past Cincinnati Music Hall, then spend some time at Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.
Next on your itinerary is some serious shut-eye. Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza and 21C Museum Hotel Cincinnati have room for both you and your wheels while visiting Cincinnati.
