Car rentals in Charleston: All you need to know

You want a great car to get around Charleston whether you're traveling for a business trip or a vacation. See the famous sites around town and park in front of the best restaurants in Charleston. CarRentals.com has gathered your most popular questions about renting a car in Charleston. Read on to see which vehicle is perfect for your trip, and how to get the best rates.

Where do I get a great deal on a rental car in Charleston?

CarRentals.com always tries to get you the best deal. But, to get the most savings on your trip to Charleston you can do a few things. You can:

• Compare the prices of vehicles
• Avoid pick-ups or drop-offs at airports, which typically are more expensive
• Know ahead of time how much fuel/mileage you may use
• Search and book as far in advance as you can

Even a little knowledge can go a long way to getting you the most savings.

What rental companies have agencies in Charleston?

From budget-friendly brands like Economy and Budget to global names like Avis and Enterprise, CarRentals.com has some of the best brands in the business. Read through the reviews to get an idea of which one meets your needs.

What type of rental car should I get for my trip to Charleston?

That depends on how many people you are traveling with and what activities you want to do in Charleston. If you're having a bit of trouble picking the right car, make sure to go over the table below. We've compared the most popular vehicle categories for you:

How old do you have to be to rent a car in Charleston?

Usually, to rent a car in Charleston you must be at least 21—the same as it is across the rest of the USA. Additionally, many suppliers charge an extra fee if you are under 25. Be sure to read over the rental agreement to figure out what the exact price is before you reserve your rental.

Does Charleston require rental car insurance?

Most countries require driver's insurance. You may be able to buy temporary insurance with the rental car supplier. Otherwise, as a U.S. citizen, you can also purchase Collision Damage Coverage through CarRentals.com at checkout. Although many of the major card issuers, like Visa or American Express, give some insurance, there may be restrictions. For example, you may not be covered if you reserve a luxury or larger vehicle. Make sure to check car rental supplier's policy before you decide.

What is the fuel policy for Charleston rental cars?

Most suppliers give you a choice of fuel policies. Below is a list of the most common ones.

What fuel policy do you recommend?

Many suppliers offer a variety of fuel policies. However, the stand-out choice is usually full-to-full. It simply means returning the car with the same level of gas as you got it with, so you'll never pay for anyone else's road trips through the Charleston.

Should I get unlimited miles when I rent a car in Charleston?

Unlimited miles is a good option if you decide to do some sightseeing or visit a lot of clients all over Charleston. You can drive wherever you want without incurring extra charges. Go over your policy to see if there are mileage limitations.

Know before you go

Before you get going on your Charleston trip, be sure you go over a few items prior to leaving the lot. You should take time to:

• Check out your vehicle and determine if there is any damage or scrapes. If so, write it down on your paperwork
• Check the trunk to see if the spare is properly inflated and the necessary tools to change it are there
• Get familiar with the controls of your car. Adjust the mirrors and seats to your liking, and figure out how to turn on the lights and wipers
• Figure out how to work the navigation and entertainment. It's best to limit any unnecessary distractions when you are driving around a new area

Book your Charleston car rental today

Maybe you're carpooling with co-workers to and from the hotel to the conference center, maybe you're traveling solo, or maybe you're bringing your partner or kids. CarRentals.com has the ideal car rental that can suit your requirements and not break your wallet.