South Carolina car rentals

Standard (Volkswagen Jetta or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in South Carolina.

Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car rental companies in South Carolina are Alamo (8.8, 191 reviews), Enterprise Rent-A-Car (7.6, 221 reviews), and Thrifty (6.5, 71 reviews).

Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.

Hire a vehicle in South Carolina and get to explore as much as possible. South Carolina is popularly known for its extensive beaches and the historic Charleston City. Hiring an economy hire car will enable you to travel and visit all the must-see spots. While there are public transportation options in most towns across South Carolina, some locations are only accessible via private means. Take your ride along the coast and see the magnificent Hilton Head Island and Myrtle Beach. For those that enjoy outdoor events, take your time and enjoy the hiking trails and other outdoor activities in Congaree National Park.

The driving conditions in South Carolina range from flat to mountainous due to the state's diverse topography. Since South Carolina's weather is not particularly harsh, any type of hire car will serve you well for your trip. The state’s road system is pretty impressive, as all areas are connected by a comprehensive network of highways and interstates. The I-77 and the I-20, for example, connect with significant adjacent state cities like Charlotte, North Carolina, Atlanta and Georgia. The I-95, which runs through South Carolina, is the main north-to-south road on the U.S East Coast. Just like the numerous car hire companies in South Carolina, there’s also an abundance of parking spaces. It is important to note that most public car parks require payment and are metered, which makes it easy to pay and know of any restrictions. Major cities in South Carolina are often buzzing with activity, which makes being stuck in a traffic jam during rush hour very possible. A wise way to bypass this nasty experience is to avoid driving during peak hours, altogether.

In South Carolina, most car hire agencies mandate that you be at least 21 years old in order to hire a vehicle. If you need to hire a car and are between the ages of 21 and 24, you will probably have to pay a "young driver charge" and might only be able to hire specific types of vehicles; luxury models may be off limits.