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Top destinations to rent a car in South Carolina

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Charleston

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What you need to know for your South Carolina car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in South Carolina

Renting a car in South Carolina offers the freedom to explore the state's diverse attractions at your own pace, making it a popular choice for tourists. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy flexible travel plans, perfect for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. South Carolina is home to stunning destinations such as Myrtle Beach, where you can stroll along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk or visit Broadway at the Beach for family-friendly experiences. Coligny Beach on Hilton Head Island invites beach lovers to relax and soak in the sun. A car also allows you to conveniently travel between key locations like North Myrtle Beach, known for its Cherry Grove Fishing Pier. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or an adventure in nature, having a rental car enhances your experience, enabling you to visit scenic spots like Sea Pines Forest Preserve with ease. Overall, renting a car in South Carolina provides the flexibility and convenience needed to fully enjoy the state's beautiful landscapes and attractions.

Most popular car rentals in South Carolina

  • Midsize: This car type accommodates up to 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. It is an ideal choice for couples and families who need a comfortable vehicle with adequate luggage capacity while exploring South Carolina at their own pace.
  • Standard SUV: Perfect for those travelling in groups or with families, the Standard SUV accommodates 5 travellers and provides room for 2 medium suitcases. This option is suitable for those who desire a blend of comfort and flexibility while navigating South Carolina's attractions.
  • Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is designed for larger groups or families, with the capacity to accommodate 5 travellers and hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for those needing extra space without compromising on comfort during their South Carolina journey.

Where to stay in South Carolina

  • Myrtle Beach: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Myrtle Beach offers a fantastic outdoor and family-friendly experience. Visitors can enjoy the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, located near the beach and esplanade, perfect for leisurely strolls. Broadway at the Beach provides a variety of shopping and dining options, ideal for families seeking entertainment. The Family Kingdom Amusement Park is a nearby attraction that enhances the adventure for visitors. With numerous wineries and breweries in the vicinity, Myrtle Beach is also a great spot for those looking to indulge in local flavours.
  • Hilton Head Island: This picturesque island is renowned for its outdoor activities, making it an excellent choice for families and those seeking a city-themed experience. Coligny Beach offers a beautiful sandy retreat, while Tybee Island Beach is also nearby for additional beach enjoyment. The Sea Pines Forest Preserve serves as a tranquil escape for nature lovers and those wishing to explore the area's natural beauty. With various resorts and golf courses, Hilton Head Island provides plenty of options for relaxation and recreation.
  • North Myrtle Beach: North Myrtle Beach is a charming destination perfect for families and beach lovers. The area boasts attractions such as Cherry Grove Beach, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The Cherry Grove Fishing Pier is a popular spot for anglers and those wanting to enjoy the seaside views. Barefoot Resort and Golf offers a unique accommodation experience for golf enthusiasts. With shopping centres and a variety of dining options, North Myrtle Beach combines convenience with a coastal lifestyle.

10 tips to save on your car rental in South Carolina

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV to accommodate extra passengers, a convertible for sunny days, or an economical car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to obtain better rates and enjoy greater 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 busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible to them. This may also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, although the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards as a form of payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in South Carolina

The best value period for renting a car in South Carolina is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. March also offers similar benefits, maintaining moderate pricing and demand. Moving into April and May, prices rise to average levels, while demand increases moderately. The busiest and most expensive month tends to be July, where prices are slightly high and demand remains steady. August also sees slightly low prices but moderate demand, making it a transitional month before the quieter fall season.

When you visit South Carolina, you want to see every bit of landscape and culture at your fingertips. Yes, there is plenty to do and see in this part of the world, but public transportation can only get you so far. To see some of the most hidden gems, your own set of wheels will come in handy. South Carolina car hire makes it possible to see the area on your own schedule with ease. If you hear about a restaurant tucked away at the edge of your favourite neighbourhood, it’s no problem. When you want to see a late night show or early morning sunrise off the beaten path, your car makes that possible too. Cheap car hire in South Carolina allows you to set your ideal itinerary without paying a fortune. Book incredible South Carolina car rental deals right here on Expedia.com.au today. Whether you want a vehicle outfitted with luxury amenities, or a hybrid car with impressive gas mileage, you can find the perfect set of wheels on Expedia. From compact cars to spacious SUVs, we have loads of options to choose from and booking is just a few clicks away.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my South Carolina car reservation?
Cancelling a reservation with at least six hours notice should allow for a full refund. However, this is not always a given. It's worth looking through your booking confirmation and rental agreement. Still need help? Click through to our Customer Service Portal.
What types of cars can I rent in South Carolina?
Whatever meets your needs! Go for an intermediate or full-size if you're travelling with the family, or scale up to a premium for a top-of-the-range ride. Or, choose an economy model — the most booked rental in South Carolina. Affordable and with awesome mileage, they're perfect for solo travellers, couples or anyone else who doesn't require a huge amount of space. They're especially suited to city driving. Squeezing into narrow parking spots will be a walk in the park!
How do I find the best car rental deals in South Carolina with Expedia?
Check customer ratings, choose your preferred ride and compare offers from the most popular providers. Expedia makes it a cinch to pick up the best deal on your rental wheels. Combine your South Carolina car rental with flight or hotel bookings and start your road trip with even greater savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in South Carolina?
Drivers have to be at least 21. But there are a handful of age-related rules you should keep in mind before reserving your wheels in South Carolina. If you're a young driver, most rental companies will charge an extra daily fee and limit the kinds of cars you're able to rent. The surcharge, and which age range it applies to, varies between companies. Take a few moments to compare the rules.
What do you need to rent a car in South Carolina?
Renting a car in South Carolina is a breeze. Generally, all that's required is a valid driver's licence and a credit card. After settling on your perfect set of wheels, look up the terms and conditions to make sure there are no further requirements prior to your scheduled pickup.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in South Carolina?
Head over to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip details and then reserve your ideal ride. Whether you're basing yourself in South Carolina or plan to journey beyond, Expedia will help you find a long-term rental at a fantastic rate.
Where can I find a South Carolina car rental if I am younger than 25?
Some South Carolina companies will rent to drivers under 25 years old, and others won't. Age policies differ from supplier to supplier, so be prepared to do some research. Also, find out if there are any additional costs. Some places will have a surcharge for young customers between 21 and 24. Always check the terms and conditions to avoid any nasty surprises.

Car Rental Information

 
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