Charleston Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Charleston

Renting a car in Charleston, West Virginia, provides significant freedom and flexibility for your travels. With a rental vehicle, you can explore the city's rich attractions at your own pace, without the constraints of public transport schedules. Key sites such as the West Virginia State Capitol Building and Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences are easily accessible, allowing you to immerse yourself in local culture. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Kanawha State Forest offers scenic views and adventure experiences just a short drive away.

Additionally, with a car, you can discover nearby cities like Cross Lanes, which features the West Virginia Junior College-Charleston and Nitro City Park, or venture to Hurricane to enjoy Teays Valley Lakes and Valley Park. South Charleston is also within reach, home to Jefferson Park and more cultural venues. The convenience of having your own vehicle allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families and those keen on outdoor and city-themed experiences. Renting a car ensures you make the most of your trip to Charleston and its surrounding areas.

Most popular car rentals in Charleston

• Midsize: The Midsize car option is a popular choice for those travelling in groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an ideal selection for couples or families looking for space and comfort while exploring Charleston. With a Midsize vehicle, you can enjoy the freedom of travel without feeling cramped, ensuring a pleasant journey as you discover the sights.
• Economy: If you are seeking a budget-friendly option, the Economy car is an excellent choice. Also accommodating up to 5 travellers, it can hold up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo travellers, couples, or families. Economy cars are designed for efficiency, allowing you to navigate Charleston easily while keeping costs low. This option is perfect for those prioritising value and convenience.
• Compact: The Compact car option is an ideal solution for those who desire a smaller vehicle without compromising on passenger capacity. Accommodating up to 5 travellers and up to 3 medium suitcases, it's a versatile choice for solo adventurers, couples, or families. Compact cars are easy to manoeuvre around Charleston's streets, providing a practical and comfortable driving experience while making parking hassle-free.

Top rated car suppliers in Charleston

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice for travellers seeking a reliable car rental experience in Charleston. With one rental location in the area, Alamo offers a selection of well-maintained vehicles, including the most booked Midsize SUV and Premium Pickup options. Customers appreciate the efficient service and the cleanliness of the cars. Alamo provides flexibility for exploring Charleston and its surroundings at your own pace, making it an ideal option for those with varied itineraries.
• Avis: Avis is another top supplier in Charleston, featuring one rental location as well. Known for its quality service, Avis offers a variety of vehicles, with the Standard SUV being the most popular choice among customers. Travellers benefit from Avis's commitment to customer satisfaction and ease of rental processes, allowing for smooth pickups and returns. This supplier is well-suited for those looking to navigate the beauty of Charleston effortlessly.

Where to stay in Charleston

• Hurricane: Located close to Charleston, Hurricane offers a delightful mix of family-friendly and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of Teays Valley Lakes and Hurricane Lake, both ideal for romantic getaways and outdoor adventures. The urban park at Valley Park is perfect for families, while the local shopping centre and nearby wineries add to the charm. With its recreational parks and golf courses, Hurricane is a great base for those seeking both relaxation and exploration.
• Cross Lanes: This city, situated near Charleston, is perfect for families and couples looking for a city-themed escapade. Highlights include the Shawnee Sports Complex and Nitro City Park, both offering ample outdoor space for various activities. The nearby West Virginia Junior College-Charleston adds a cultural touch to your visit. Dining options abound, with an array of restaurants and wineries, making Cross Lanes a versatile destination for travellers seeking both leisure and culinary delights.
• Kanawha City: A neighbourhood within Charleston’s vicinity, Kanawha City is ideal for families and those interested in outdoor experiences. With attractions like the historic West Virginia State Capitol Building and the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences, there is a wealth of cultural exploration to be had. The area boasts shopping centres and dining options, ensuring that visitors have convenient access to amenities. Urban parks here provide beautiful spaces for relaxation and recreation, making Kanawha City a well-rounded place to stay.

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 specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, making it advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size options strike a fine balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, requiring you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are acceptable too; just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides additional peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to sidestep additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Charleston

The best value period to rent a car in and around Charleston is April, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. February and March also offer low demand with average prices, making them decent alternatives for budget-conscious travellers. However, July tends to be the most expensive month due to high demand, with slightly high prices, while June through August see increased rental activity as summer hits its peak. September marks a busy time as well, with slightly low prices but high demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	32.7°F (0.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	36.7°F (2.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
April	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
May	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
July	74.7°F (23.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	67.5°F (19.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly Low
October	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	38.8°F (3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average