Car Rental at Charleston Airport (CHS)
Check live prices from 8 providers at the terminal. Pick up your keys and hit the road — no queues, no stress.
Quick answer: At Charleston Airport you can compare rental cars from 8 providers. We show prices and terms upfront so you can choose wisely — not just cheaply.
About Renting a Car at Charleston Airport
Charleston International Airport (CHS) is located approximately 20 km northwest of Charleston center and is the state's second-largest airport. With 8 car rental companies on-site, this is the best place to pick up a rental car in South Carolina Lowcountry. From here, you can reach Charleston center in about 20 minutes and Myrtle Beach in just over 2 hours via US-17 N.
The airport is close to North Charleston and I-26, providing quick access to the entire region. Joint Base Charleston borders the airport and occasionally affects traffic on Aviation Avenue. Pick up your car directly in the terminal and avoid rush hour on I-26 toward downtown between 7–9 am and 5–7 pm.
Choose a fuel-efficient vehicle if you're planning longer trips along South Carolina's coast. Check whether your rental company is located in the airport's centralized rental center or requires a shuttle. How long does it take to drive from CHS to Charleston center?
About 20–25 minutes via I-26 E, approximately 20 km. Which car rental companies are at Charleston Airport? The airport has 8 rental companies, including most major chains such as Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, and Budget.
Can I drive to Hilton Head Island from CHS? Yes, Hilton Head is about 130 km south via I-95 S and US-278 E, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
We compare prices from all major providers at Charleston Airport so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.
Renting at Charleston Airport — The Short Version
🚗 1) Pick the Right Terms
- Fuel: "Full-to-full" is usually the fairest deal.
- Extra driver: can cost extra — check before booking.
- Automatic: often pricier and in shorter supply.
🪪 2) Bring the Right Documents
- Driver's license (usually held for at least 1 year)
- Passport or national ID
- Credit card in the driver's name for the deposit
📸 3) Drama-Free Pickup
- Film the car from all angles + the dashboard.
- Photograph scratches, wheels and windshield.
- Keep your fuel receipt when returning.
Rental Companies at Charleston Airport
Providers you can compare here (availability varies by date and season).
Essential Info for Renting at Charleston Airport
Practical answers and tips before you book.
✅ Quick Answers ▼
At Charleston Airport you can compare rentals from 8 providers on SmartCarRental. We show prices and terms upfront so you know what you're paying.
- Book 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and prices.
- Choose "full-to-full" fuel whenever possible.
- Have a credit card in the driver's name ready for the deposit.
🚙 Driving in USA – South Carolina ▼
In USA – South Carolina you drive on the Right side.
- Urban speed limit: 50 km/h
- Rural roads: 90 km/h
- Motorway: 110 km/h
- Alcohol limit: 0,08 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls ▼
Parking is available usually in cities, but can be expensive in the center.
Road tolls: Be prepared to haveve cash available for sife roads.
Frequently Asked Questions — Car Rental at Charleston Airport
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15-Day Weather Forecast for Charleston
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Rent a Car Near Charleston Airport
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Real prices, real terms, 8 providers. See what Charleston Airport has to offer.
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