Hertz Car Hire
Charleston

The car hire facility at Charleston International Airport is conveniently located in the Rental Car Pavilion, which sits directly adjacent to the main terminal. After collecting your luggage at baggage reclaim you exit the terminal and take a short, covered walkway to the pavilion. The entire walk typically takes only a few minutes, making it an easy and accessible process without the need for a shuttle bus. All hire car desks and vehicle lots are consolidated in this central location for a streamlined experience.

Collecting a vehicle late at night at the CHS hire facility is generally straightforward and designed to accommodate later arrivals. The hire car centre is well lit and clearly signed, guiding you from the terminal to the desks. While staffing may be reduced compared with peak hours, agents are typically available to assist with pickups for scheduled flight arrivals. Having your reservation details and driving licence ready will help ensure the process is as quick and efficient as possible so you can be on your way without delay.

The drive from the CHS hire car lot to downtown Charleston typically takes about 25 to 35 minutes in light traffic. However, on a weekday afternoon you should allow for potential delays, especially during rush hour which generally runs from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. During this time traffic on Interstate 26 can become quite congested, potentially extending the drive to 45 minutes or more. It's a good idea to check a real-time traffic app before you leave the airport for the most accurate estimate.

The most straightforward route from the airport to Mount Pleasant is to take Interstate 526 East. As you leave the airport, follow signs for I-526 East, which will take you on a beltway around the northern part of the city. This route allows you to bypass the downtown Charleston interchanges, which can be more complex. You will then cross the scenic Wando River Bridge before taking one of several exits for Mount Pleasant, depending on your final destination.

The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, linking downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant, can be daunting for some first-time visitors because of its height and long incline. However, it features wide lanes and offers spectacular views, so the crossing is usually smooth. The key is to maintain a steady speed and keep to your lane, avoiding the far-right lane if you do not intend to exit immediately. Other smaller bridges and causeways to the sea islands are much lower and generally present no issues for drivers.

For overnight parking in downtown Charleston, the most reliable and stress-free option is to use one of the city-operated car parks. These garages are strategically located across the peninsula and offer daily rates, allowing you to leave your car securely for extended periods. This approach is far more convenient than searching for limited on-street parking, which often has strict time limits and residential permit restrictions. Parking in a garage ensures you won't have to worry about moving your vehicle or getting a ticket.

Navigating a larger SUV through Charleston's historic district can be challenging, though it is certainly manageable with patience. Many streets are narrow, some are still paved with cobbles, and the one-way system can be confusing for first-time visitors. Making tight turns and finding on-street parking for a large vehicle is particularly difficult. A common strategy is to park the SUV in a garage at the edge of the historic core and explore the more compact areas on foot for a more relaxed experience.

If your hotel is on King Street, plan for a quick and efficient luggage drop-off. Many hotels have small, designated loading zones where you can pull over for a few minutes. It's best to have one person stay with the vehicle while others unload the bags, as parking enforcement is active. If there is no loading zone, you may need to briefly double-park with your hazard lights on, but be prepared to move immediately for traffic or horse-drawn carriages. Contacting your hotel in advance for their specific recommendation is a sensible idea.

To enjoy a less hectic hire pickup experience at CHS for a weekend event, consider scheduling your flight to arrive mid-day, between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm. This window typically falls after the morning rush of business travellers and before the main wave of evening arrivals. Late-evening arrivals, after 9:00 pm, can also be quieter. Avoiding peak times on a Friday afternoon or evening can often lead to shorter queues at the hire desk and a more relaxed start to your Charleston visit.

The most convenient way to make a grocery stop after leaving CHS is to pick a store along your primary route. Several major supermarkets are located just off Interstate 526 or along Savannah Highway (US-17), depending on whether you're heading towards Mount Pleasant or the sea islands. Using a navigation app to find a supermarket a few miles from the airport will allow a quick detour to stock up on essentials, saving you from having to go out again after you have settled into your accommodation.

GPS navigation is generally reliable for getting you into the correct neighbourhood of the historic district, but it can sometimes struggle with the specifics. The system may occasionally get confused by the dense network of one-way streets or roads with similar names like Queen, King and Prince. It's good practice to use GPS for the main guidance but also pay close attention to physical street signs as you approach your final destination. Having a co-pilot to help navigate can make the experience much smoother.

The most common driving mistakes visitors make are failing to yield to pedestrians at crossings and not giving horse-drawn carriages a wide berth. Charleston is a very walkable city and pedestrians are everywhere. Another frequent issue is being caught out by the numerous one-way streets, leading to abrupt turns or having to circle the block. To avoid these issues, drive defensively and at a slower pace, always be prepared to stop for people and carriages, and review your route on a map before you start driving.

For sunrise photos, parking is typically much easier than during the day. The area along the Battery offers some of the best views and has on-street parking that is usually plentiful before 7:00 am. Similarly, the streets around Waterfront Park are another excellent option with available spots in the early morning. Arriving about 30 minutes before sunrise should give you ample time to find a prime parking spot without any stress, allowing you to focus on capturing the perfect shot.

The drive to Magnolia Plantation mainly follows Ashley River Road (Highway 61), a scenic but mostly two-lane road. The primary challenge can be traffic, which often slows, especially at weekends or during peak tourist season. There are no particularly tricky turns, but the entrances to the various plantations can come up quickly. It's sensible to use a GPS and pay attention to road signs so you don't miss the turnoff for the plantation's main entrance.

To get to Boone Hall Plantation from downtown Charleston before the peak crowds arrive, you should plan for a driving time of about 30 to 45 minutes. To be safe, especially on a weekday morning, it's best to leave downtown around 8:00 am to 8:15 am. This allows you to get ahead of the worst of the commuter traffic heading into Mount Pleasant and ensures you arrive shortly after the plantation opens, giving you time to explore before larger tour groups and crowds appear mid-morning.

A day trip to Beaufort is a lovely idea, and the driving plan is straightforward. The most direct route is to take US Highway 17 South from Charleston and stay on that road for the majority of the trip, which passes through scenic Lowcountry landscapes. The drive is approximately 70 miles and usually takes about an hour and a half without stops. Close to Beaufort, signs will clearly direct you into the historic downtown area where public parking is available.

The drive from Charleston to Savannah is an easy and popular route for visitors, taking about two hours without stops. The most common route involves taking US-17 South to Interstate 95 South. Along the way you could plan a stop in the charming town of Beaufort, roughly halfway. On arrival in Savannah, the parking situation is similar to Charleston's; using one of the many public car parks is the simplest way to park for the day while you explore the historic squares on foot.

To ensure the smoothest drive from Charleston to Hilton Head, it's best to avoid leaving during peak traffic times. The ideal time to depart is mid-morning, between 9:30 am and 11:00 am, after the morning rush hour has subsided. An early afternoon departure, around 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm, also works well. Try to avoid leaving on a Friday afternoon, as you will encounter heavy weekend traffic heading towards the coast, particularly on US-278, the main road onto Hilton Head Island.

Driving to Folly Beach on a summer weekend requires patience, as you should expect significant traffic delays, especially from late morning through the afternoon. The causeway leading to the island can become very congested. Once you arrive, parking is a mix of paid public lots near the pier, limited on-street parking, and private lots. To secure a spot it is highly recommended to arrive early in the morning, ideally before 10:00 am, as spaces fill up very quickly.

Yes, visiting both Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island in a single day is very realistic and a popular combination. The two islands are located right next to each other and are connected by the Breach Inlet bridge, making the drive between them only a few minutes long. A common plan is to start your day at one beach and then simply drive over to the other in the afternoon, allowing you to experience the different vibes of each island without a long or complicated journey.

For a family-friendly beach day with easy logistics, Isle of Palms County Park is an excellent choice. The park offers a large car park which simplifies arrival and departure, and it is equipped with public toilets, changing areas and outdoor showers. Lifeguards are on duty seasonally, adding an extra layer of safety for children. Its convenient amenities and straightforward access make it a low-stress option for families wanting to enjoy the coast without hassle.

To avoid traffic delays on a day trip to Kiawah Island, it's best to leave Charleston early in the morning. Aim to be on the road by 8:30 am, especially if you are visiting on a weekend or holiday. This should help you miss the heaviest traffic that builds up on the roads leading to the island and at the main security gate. An early start ensures a more pleasant drive and maximises your time to enjoy the island's natural beauty.

For an outing that is easy on grandparents, consider a visit to Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, which has ample parking very close to the visitor centre and offers a tram tour of the grounds. Another good option is a scenic drive through the historic district, finishing with parking along the Battery to enjoy the waterfront views from the car or a nearby bench. Both options minimise walking while still allowing everyone to experience Charleston's charm and history.

If you need a quick break with tired children after leaving the airport, the area around the Tanger Outlets, just a few minutes from CHS, is a great option. It has several familiar fast-food and casual restaurants where you can easily stop for a snack and a toilet break. This area is right off Interstate 526, so it's a very convenient detour that won't take you far off your path to downtown Charleston or other parts of the region.

Charleston's school zones can significantly impact driving times on weekday mornings between roughly 7:00 am and 8:30 am, and again in the afternoon. During these hours speed limits are strictly reduced on major roads near schools and traffic often backs up due to drop-off lines and increased local activity. If you are driving during these times, especially in suburban areas like West Ashley or Mount Pleasant, be sure to budget an extra 15 to 20 minutes for your trip and pay close attention to flashing school zone signs.

For a driver unfamiliar with the area, navigating Interstate 26 during Charleston's rush hour can be challenging. The traffic is heavy and the pace can be fast-moving in some sections while completely stopped in others. The interchanges with I-526 and the exits leading into downtown require you to be in the correct lane well in advance. It's highly advisable to use a GPS for lane guidance and to remain patient and focused, as last-minute lane changes can be difficult and unsafe.

During hurricane season, even a typical heavy thunderstorm can cause significant driving challenges in Charleston. The biggest issue is localised flooding, which can lead to sudden road closures in low-lying areas of the downtown peninsula and along coastal roads. It is crucial to never drive through standing water, as it can be much deeper than it appears. Following local news and weather alerts for road closure information is essential for staying safe and avoiding getting stranded.

After a beach day, the most effective way to remove sand from your hire car is to visit a local car wash. You can find numerous self-service and full-service car washes in Mount Pleasant, West Ashley and James Island, the main gateways to the area's beaches. Most of these facilities have high-powered vacuums available for a small fee, which are perfect for getting sand out of the carpets and seats before you return the vehicle.

To efficiently visit the plantations along Ashley River Road, a logical plan is to drive to the one furthest from the city first and work your way back. For example, you could start your day by driving directly to Middleton Place. After your visit, you can make shorter drives back towards Charleston to see Magnolia Plantation and then Drayton Hall. This approach prevents you from driving past one plantation to get to another, saving time and creating a smooth, linear route for your day.

Driving between downtown Charleston and Mount Pleasant at night is generally a safe and straightforward experience. The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is well lit, offering beautiful views of the harbour and city skyline after dark. The multi-lane approaches on both sides of the bridge are clearly marked and illuminated, making navigation easy. As with any city driving at night, it's always wise to remain aware of your surroundings, but the route itself is not considered difficult.

The most practical plan for multiple hotel drop-offs in downtown Charleston is to use a public car park as a central meeting point. The driver can drop everyone off with their luggage at one garage, and from there individuals can take a short walk or rideshare to their respective hotels. This avoids the stress of the driver having to navigate narrow, one-way streets to several different locations. It keeps the group together for the main journey and simplifies the final distribution.

The best strategy for a full day of exploring this area is to park your car once and leave it. There are several city-run car parks, such as the Prioleau Street Garage or the East Bay/Queen Street Garage, that are well situated for this plan. By parking in one of these locations you are just a short walk from Waterfront Park, Rainbow Row and the Battery. This approach allows you to enjoy the historic scenery on foot without the hassle of moving your car or feeding a meter all day.

Reaching Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum by car is very easy. From downtown Charleston you will drive over the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge into Mount Pleasant and take the first exit, which is clearly marked for Patriots Point. The route is direct and well signposted, leading you straight to the attraction's entrance. Once you arrive, there is a large, dedicated visitor car park located right in front of the USS Yorktown, making access simple and convenient.

For a food-focused trip, your best bet is to use the city's public car parks, especially for popular dining areas like Upper King Street or the French Quarter. These garages offer hourly rates and are a secure place to leave your car for several hours while you enjoy a meal or explore nearby eateries. Relying on a car park eliminates the stress of searching for a metered spot and worrying about time limits, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Charleston's culinary scene.

When driving in downtown Charleston it is essential to be extremely vigilant. Pedestrians are everywhere and often have the right of way, so be prepared to stop at all crossings. Horse-drawn carriages move slowly and make wide turns, so always give them plenty of space and never sound your horn, as it can startle the animals. The key to navigating these areas safely is to drive slowly, be patient, and maintain a high level of awareness of your surroundings at all times.

For a stress-free early-morning departure, plan to arrive at the hire car return area at CHS at least two hours before your flight is scheduled to leave. This provides a comfortable cushion of time to complete the vehicle return process, take the short walk to the terminal, check your bags, and get through security. Arriving with plenty of time to spare helps prevent any last-minute rushing and ensures a calm start to your travel day.

The most common point of confusion for drivers is missing the initial turnoff for the 'Rental Car Return' lane as they approach the airport complex. Many drivers instinctively follow the main signs for 'Departures' or 'Arrivals' and end up at the terminal kerb instead. The key is to look for the specific rental return signage early and merge into the designated lane as soon as you see it, as it separates from the main airport traffic flow well before you reach the terminal building.

The most efficient sequence is to first follow the signs for 'Departures' and drop your friends and their luggage off at the airline's curbside check-in area. After they are safely on the kerb, you can continue driving around the terminal's one-way loop. As you come back around, immediately get into the correct lane for 'Rental Car Return.' This avoids having to exit and re-enter the airport road system and makes for a quick, seamless transition from passenger drop-off to car return.

A great option for a quick photo stop is Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park, located at the base of the Ravenel Bridge. It's easily accessible from the main route off the peninsula and offers fantastic views of the bridge and the Charleston skyline. Another choice is Pitt Street Bridge in Mount Pleasant's Old Village, which is a short detour. These locations allow you to capture beautiful farewell shots without having to navigate the unpredictable traffic of downtown Charleston.

For a first-time visitor, it makes the most sense to have a hire car on the days you plan to explore beyond the historic downtown peninsula. Reserve the car for visiting the area's beaches like Folly Beach or Isle of Palms, driving to the plantations on Ashley River Road, or taking a day trip to a nearby town. For days you plan to stay within the walkable historic district, a car is often unnecessary and can be more of a challenge due to parking. This hybrid approach gives you freedom when you need it and simplicity when you don't.