Avis Car Rental
South Carolina

The Avis rental car counter at Charleston International Airport is conveniently located within the Rental Car Pavilion. After you collect your luggage from the baggage claim carousels, simply exit the terminal building. You will see clear signage directing you to the covered walkway that leads directly to the pavilion. The entire facility is just a short walk from the terminal, so there is no need to wait for a shuttle bus, making the process smooth and efficient.

Arriving on a late-night flight at CHS is generally a straightforward experience for picking up your rental car. The Rental Car Pavilion is well-lit and directly connected to the terminal, making it easy to navigate even after dark. While the airport may be quieter, the rental counters are staffed to accommodate scheduled flight arrivals. Having your reservation details ready will help expedite the process, allowing you to get on your way to your accommodations with minimal delay.

During peak travel times, it's wise to budget around 45 to 60 minutes from the moment your plane lands to when you drive off in your rental car. This accounts for deplaning, walking to baggage claim, waiting for your luggage, and then proceeding to the rental counter. The walk to the Rental Car Pavilion is quick, but lines can form during busy periods like holidays or weekends. Having your driver's license and reservation information handy will ensure the check-in process is as efficient as possible.

For a first-time visitor, the most direct and least confusing route from CHS to downtown Charleston is via I-526 East to I-26 East. After leaving the airport, follow signs for I-526 East toward Mount Pleasant. In a few miles, you will merge onto I-26 East, which takes you directly onto the Charleston peninsula. This route is well-signed and avoids most of the complex local interchanges, providing a clear path into the heart of the city.

When staying on the Charleston peninsula, travelers have a few common options for overnight parking. Many hotels offer valet or self-parking services, which is often the most convenient choice. Alternatively, the city operates numerous public parking garages that offer secure, overnight rates and are strategically located throughout the historic district. For accommodations in residential areas, on-street parking may be available, but it's crucial to pay close attention to posted signs for time limits, residential permit requirements, and street sweeping schedules.

Driving in Charleston's historic district requires patience and heightened awareness. The streets are famously narrow, often paved with cobblestones, and feature a complex network of one-way roads. It's essential to yield to horse-drawn carriages, as they have the right of way and move at a leisurely pace. Using a GPS is highly recommended to navigate the one-way system, and driving slowly allows you to watch for pedestrians and cyclists who also share the charming but tight roadways.

This is a very realistic and popular strategy for visiting Charleston. The historic downtown area is incredibly walkable, and you can easily explore its main attractions on foot for several days. Many visitors choose to rent a car only for the days they plan to visit outlying areas like the beaches or plantations. This approach can simplify your trip by eliminating the need to find daily parking downtown while still giving you the freedom to explore the wider Lowcountry region at your leisure.

To avoid the worst of Charleston's commuter traffic, try to schedule your drive from CHS to downtown outside of the peak hours of 7:30-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM on weekdays. If your flight arrives during these times, you might consider waiting at the airport for a bit or stopping for a meal in North Charleston before heading downtown. The main route, I-26, can become quite congested, so traveling during midday or later in the evening will almost always result in a quicker and less stressful drive.

After picking up your rental car at CHS, there are several convenient shopping centers just a short drive away in North Charleston and West Ashley. The Tanger Outlets are located right near the airport for any immediate needs. For groceries and a wider selection of supplies, many travelers head to the nearby commercial areas along International Boulevard or Sam Rittenberg Boulevard. These areas host major grocery stores, pharmacies, and big-box retailers, making it easy to stock up before you check into your hotel or vacation rental.

Driving over the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is a memorable experience with stunning views of the Charleston harbor. For a first-timer, the height and scale can be impressive, but the drive is smooth with wide lanes. If you are heading from Charleston to Mount Pleasant, you'll want to be in one of the right two lanes as you approach the end of the bridge. These lanes provide the most straightforward access to the main exits for Coleman Boulevard and other key routes in Mount Pleasant.

To plan an efficient day trip to Magnolia Plantation, it's best to go early in the morning, especially on a weekday, to secure a good parking spot before the lots fill up. The plantation is located on Ashley River Road (Highway 61), which is also home to other historic sites like Drayton Hall and Middleton Place. You can minimize backtracking by visiting the plantation furthest from the city first and working your way back toward Charleston, or vice versa. Arriving right at opening time is the best strategy for a relaxed visit and easy parking.

A great plan is to visit Boone Hall Plantation in the morning when it's cooler and less crowded. From downtown Charleston, take the Ravenel Bridge to Mount Pleasant and follow signs for US-17 North; the plantation is just a short drive from there. After your visit, you can easily continue to the beaches by heading back toward the bridge and taking the Isle of Palms Connector. This route avoids backtracking through heavy traffic and leads you directly to both Sullivan's Island and Isle of Palms for an afternoon by the sea.

Each of Charleston's main beaches has a distinct parking situation. Folly Beach is very popular and has limited public lots, so arriving before 10 AM on a summer weekend is crucial to find a spot. Isle of Palms offers more generous parking with a large county park lot and more public access points. Sullivan's Island relies almost exclusively on on-street parking, which is free but requires careful attention to signs indicating where it's permitted. For any of them, the earlier you arrive, the better your experience will be.

Driving to Folly Beach on a summer weekend requires patience, as traffic can be significant. The main pinch point is the James Island Connector, which funnels traffic from across the area toward the beach. Congestion builds heavily on Folly Road, especially as you get closer to the island and the single bridge that provides access. To minimize your time in traffic, plan to leave very early in the morning, ideally before 9 AM, or consider visiting later in the afternoon after the initial rush has subsided.

For sunrise photos, Sullivan's Island is often the simplest beach to reach from downtown Charleston in the early morning. The drive over the Ravenel Bridge is typically traffic-free at that hour, and finding a street parking spot near a beach access path is very easy before the crowds arrive. Its east-facing shoreline provides a beautiful, unobstructed view of the sunrise over the Atlantic. Folly Beach is also a great option, with the pier offering a classic photo subject, and pre-dawn traffic is minimal.

A day trip to Beaufort and Hunting Island State Park is a fantastic way to see more of the Lowcountry. Plan to leave Charleston early, around 8 AM, to make the most of your day. The drive south on US-17 to US-21 is scenic and takes about 90 minutes to reach Beaufort. Spend the morning exploring Beaufort's historic downtown before driving the short distance to Hunting Island State Park for the afternoon. This timing allows you to enjoy both locations without feeling rushed before heading back to Charleston in the evening.

A day trip from Charleston to Savannah is definitely doable, but it requires an early start. The drive itself is about two hours each way. A realistic schedule would be to leave Charleston by 8 AM, arriving in Savannah around 10 AM. This gives you a solid six to seven hours to explore the historic district, have lunch, and see some key sights. Plan to leave Savannah by 5 PM to avoid driving in the dark and to get back to Charleston at a reasonable hour for dinner.

For a low-stress drive to Hilton Head, avoid leaving on a Friday afternoon when traffic is heaviest. The route primarily follows US-17 South and I-95 South. A wonderful place to stop for a break is the charming town of Beaufort, which is roughly the halfway point and offers beautiful waterfront parks and cafes. Another option is to take a slight detour to the Old Sheldon Church Ruins for a quick, historic photo opportunity. Planning your drive for mid-morning or early afternoon can help you miss the worst of the commuter and weekend traffic.

Kiawah Island is a private, gated community, so access for the general public is limited. If you are not a registered guest or property owner, your main destination will be Beachwalker County Park, located just outside the main gate. This park provides public beach access, restrooms, and a large parking area. It's important to note that the parking lot can fill to capacity on busy summer days, so arriving early is highly recommended. Beyond this park, access to the rest of the island is restricted.

For a beautiful and straightforward scenic drive, consider exploring the route from Charleston to Edisto Island. Take US-17 South and then turn onto the scenic Highway 174, which will take you through classic Lowcountry landscapes of marshes and live oaks draped in Spanish moss. Another excellent option is the drive through Awendaw and the Francis Marion National Forest on US-17 North. Sticking to these main state and U.S. highways ensures you get the scenery without the stress of navigating unmarked rural roads.

A common mistake visitors make is underestimating the one-way street system, especially around the City Market. Relying on a GPS is crucial, as a wrong turn can lead to a frustrating loop. Another frequent issue is not realizing that some streets, like sections of King Street, may have restricted vehicle access at certain times. Near the waterfront, drivers can get confused by the transition from East Bay Street to The Battery, so it's best to drive slowly and be prepared for your turn.

One of the trickiest spots for visitors is the intersection of Meeting Street and Broad Street, known as the 'Four Corners of Law,' which can be busy with pedestrians. The series of intersections where the I-26 connector feeds onto the peninsula can also be confusing, with multiple lanes merging and exiting quickly. Additionally, many smaller intersections in the historic French Quarter are not controlled by stoplights but by two-way or four-way stop signs, which requires drivers to be extra vigilant and courteous.

Driving to Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is quite simple. From downtown Charleston, take the Ravenel Bridge toward Mount Pleasant and use the first exit for Patriots Point. The route is very well-marked with large signs. The museum has a very large, dedicated parking lot on-site, so finding a space is rarely an issue, even on busy days. The convenience of the parking makes it an easy attraction to visit with a rental car.

The ferry to Fort Sumter departs from Liberty Square, located next to the South Carolina Aquarium in downtown Charleston. There is a dedicated city-operated parking garage conveniently situated right next to the ferry terminal. It's advisable to arrive at the parking garage at least 45 minutes before your scheduled ferry departure time. This allows ample time to park your car, walk to the terminal, go through security screening, and board the ferry without feeling rushed.

Parking directly at Rainbow Row or along The Battery is extremely limited and consists mostly of on-street spaces that are quickly taken. The best strategy for a short visit is to park in a public garage a few blocks away, such as the East Bay/Prioleau Street Garage or the Cumberland Street Garage. From there, it's a pleasant and scenic 10-15 minute walk through the historic South of Broad neighborhood to see these iconic sights. This approach saves you the frustration of circling for a rare open spot.

When driving from Mount Pleasant, the most convenient strategy is to head directly to a specific public parking garage downtown rather than searching for street parking. Cross the Ravenel Bridge and follow signs for Meeting Street or East Bay Street. Garages like the Charleston Visitor Center garage on Ann Street or the Cumberland Street Garage are excellent choices. Parking in a garage first and then exploring the city on foot is far more efficient and less stressful than hunting for a spot on the street.

Getting to major North Charleston venues from the airport is very easy, as they are located just a few minutes away. From the airport's main exit, follow signs for I-526. The North Charleston Coliseum, Performing Arts Center, and Charleston Area Convention Center are all clustered together right off the interstate at the Montague Avenue exit. The entire drive is typically less than 10 minutes, making it incredibly convenient for event-goers.

To avoid the worst of the post-event traffic jam, consider parking strategically. Choose a spot in the parking lot that is closer to an exit and pointing in the direction you need to leave. Arriving early for the event not only gives you a better choice of parking but also allows you to relax before the show. After the event, you might also consider waiting 15-20 minutes for the initial surge of cars to clear out before you attempt to exit the lot, which can make for a much calmer departure.

A great car-friendly itinerary for a family would focus on attractions with dedicated parking. Start your day at Patriots Point to explore the USS Yorktown, which has ample on-site parking. Then, drive to the South Carolina Aquarium, which has an adjacent parking garage. For a beach afternoon, head to Isle of Palms County Park, known for its large lot and family-friendly amenities. This plan minimizes parking stress and keeps the focus on fun.

A mid-size sedan or a compact SUV strikes the perfect balance for a Charleston family trip. These vehicles offer enough trunk space for luggage and beach gear while still being nimble enough to navigate the narrow streets of the historic district. While a larger SUV might be tempting for space, it can become challenging to maneuver and park downtown. A compact SUV, in particular, provides good visibility and cargo capacity without feeling oversized for the city's charmingly tight quarters.

When planning a trip that includes beach days and family outings, prioritizing trunk space is key. A mid-size SUV or a minivan is an excellent choice, offering ample room for bulky items like coolers, strollers, and beach chairs without sacrificing passenger comfort. Even a full-size sedan can work well if you pack strategically. Be sure to review the vehicle class details when booking to ensure it meets your specific cargo needs for a well-equipped Lowcountry adventure.

For a quick and iconic photo, drive along The Battery. While parking is scarce, a passenger can often hop out for a quick snapshot of the beautiful homes and waterfront. Another great spot is Pitt Street Bridge in Mount Pleasant's Old Village, which offers stunning marsh views and a clear shot of the Ravenel Bridge in the distance with easy, temporary parking. Finally, the area around the Customs House at the end of Broad Street provides a classic architectural backdrop with a few short-term metered spots nearby.

To comfortably visit Middleton Place and return for dinner, plan to leave Charleston right after breakfast, around 9 AM. The drive takes about 45 minutes. This gives you a solid three to four hours to explore the stunning gardens and historic grounds, which is plenty of time for a first visit. Aim to leave the plantation by 2:00 or 2:30 PM, which will get you back to your downtown hotel with ample time to relax and prepare for your evening reservation, well ahead of rush-hour traffic.

Driving in Charleston during a heavy downpour requires caution, as some areas are prone to temporary flooding, a phenomenon locals call 'tidal flooding.' Low-lying areas of the downtown peninsula, particularly around the City Market and along the Ashley and Cooper riverfronts, can accumulate water quickly. Major thoroughfares like the Crosstown (Highway 17) can also experience significant slowdowns. It's wise to check local weather alerts, allow extra travel time, and never attempt to drive through standing water.

During hurricane season (June through November), the most important consideration is to stay informed by monitoring local news and weather advisories. If a storm is approaching, be aware that traffic can become extremely heavy as residents and visitors evacuate. Authorities may reverse the flow of traffic on major highways like I-26 to facilitate evacuations, so it's critical to follow official instructions. Always ensure your vehicle has plenty of fuel and be prepared for changing road conditions and potential closures.

While the airport offers the largest selection of vehicles, there are also convenient rental car locations situated throughout the Charleston area. Several rental offices are located in North Charleston, not far from the Amtrak and bus stations, making for a short taxi or rideshare trip. There are also non-airport branches in West Ashley and Mount Pleasant. Booking your car from one of these neighborhood locations can be a great alternative for those not arriving by plane.

Gas stations are somewhat scarce on the historic downtown peninsula itself, so it's best to plan ahead. You will find more options along the main roads leading out of the city, such as in West Ashley or Mount Pleasant. For refueling before a flight, the most convenient time is as you begin your drive back toward the airport. There are numerous gas stations along I-526 and International Boulevard, the main road leading to the airport terminal, allowing for an easy and quick stop before you return your vehicle.

For a morning flight, it's wise to follow standard airport guidelines and plan to be at the airport two hours before your departure. The car rental return process at CHS is typically very efficient, but you should still budget about 15-20 minutes for the return, final inspection, and the short walk back to the terminal. Building in this buffer ensures you have plenty of time to check your bags and get through security without feeling rushed, especially during peak travel seasons.

A practical plan is to pack and load your luggage into the car the night before or early in the morning. You can then check out of the hotel and have the valet bring your car around one final time. This avoids a last-minute scramble with your bags on a busy sidewalk. From there, you can drive directly to the airport for your rental return and flight. This streamlined process separates the hotel checkout from the car return, making each step simpler and less stressful.

A fantastic and easy day-trip loop involves heading to Johns Island first to see the magnificent Angel Oak tree. From there, continue driving toward Kiawah and Seabrook Islands to visit Beachwalker County Park for your beach time. After enjoying the sun and sand, you can find excellent lunch or dinner options at Freshfields Village, a shopping and dining center located at the entrance to the islands. This route creates a natural and scenic loop, allowing you to experience three distinct Lowcountry highlights before heading back to Charleston.