Dollar Car Rental
South Carolina

The airport code “CHS” refers to Charleston International Airport, the primary airport serving the Charleston, South Carolina region. The rental car pickup area is conveniently located and designed for easy traveler access. After collecting your luggage, you can proceed directly to the Rental Car Pavilion, which is connected to the terminal building. This consolidated facility houses multiple rental agencies in one place, eliminating the need for a shuttle bus. The short, covered walk makes the process of getting to your vehicle quick and comfortable, regardless of the weather.

Driving out of Charleston International Airport late at night is generally a low-stress experience for travelers. The airport's main thoroughfare, International Boulevard, is modern, well-lit, and features clear, reflective signage directing you to major highways like I-526 and I-26. At that hour, traffic is typically very light, allowing for a calm and easy transition onto the interstate system. You can expect a straightforward drive away from the airport complex as you begin your journey into Charleston or the surrounding Lowcountry.

Immediately upon leaving the airport area, you'll find a major retail hub centered around Tanger Outlets and Centre Pointe Drive. This area is just a few minutes from the rental car facility and offers numerous convenient options for your first stop. You can easily locate large grocery stores, pharmacies, and various quick-service restaurants to stock up on snacks, drinks, and any travel essentials you might need. Its proximity to the airport and major highways makes it an ideal and efficient place to get settled before continuing to your final destination.

The drive from CHS to the edge of downtown Charleston is quite straightforward for any visitor. You will primarily travel on modern interstates, I-526 and I-26, which are wide and well-marked. The complexity increases once you exit the interstate onto the Charleston peninsula itself. While the main arteries like Meeting Street or King Street are manageable, the side streets in the historic district become much narrower. It's a good idea to rely on a GPS and be prepared for a slower pace as you navigate the final blocks to your hotel.

The most common point of confusion for visitors is the transition from I-26 onto the surface streets of the peninsula. The exits can be complex, and you are immediately introduced to a grid of one-way streets that can be disorienting. Many drivers get tripped up by unexpected one-way designations or no-turn-on-red signals that are common downtown. It is crucial to have your GPS navigation active and pay close attention to street signs, as a wrong turn can easily lead you on a frustrating detour through the historic neighborhoods.

When your hotel is in a bustling area like King Street or the City Market, the best strategy is to avoid driving directly down those main thoroughfares. Instead, use your GPS to navigate to a major cross street, such as Calhoun or Broad Street, and approach your destination from the side. It's also highly advisable to identify the closest public parking garage to your hotel beforehand. Driving directly to the garage and then walking the final block or two is often much easier than attempting to navigate through dense crowds of pedestrians and delivery vehicles.

Parking in historic Charleston requires some advance planning, especially if your inn has limited space. The city uses a mix of metered street parking, residential permit-only zones, and numerous public parking garages. Before you arrive, confirm the parking situation with your accommodation. If they cannot guarantee a spot, your most reliable option is to locate a nearby city-operated garage for overnight parking. Be sure to read all street signs carefully, as parking regulations are strictly enforced to accommodate residents.

Yes, navigating downtown Charleston with a larger vehicle like a full-size SUV or minivan can be quite stressful. Many of the historic streets, particularly south of Broad Street, are extremely narrow and were not designed for modern cars. Additionally, some of the older parking garages feature tight turns, low clearance heights, and compact spaces that can be challenging for oversized vehicles. If your travel plans are focused primarily on the historic peninsula, opting for a compact or mid-size rental car will likely provide a much more comfortable driving experience.

The most effective “park once” strategy is to choose a centrally located public parking garage and leave your vehicle there for the day or even your entire stay. Garages near the Charleston Visitor Center, Marion Square, or the City Market are excellent choices as they provide a good starting point for exploring. The historic district is incredibly walkable, and you can cover significant ground on foot. For longer distances, you can utilize the free DASH trolley service, which has routes that cover most of the peninsula's key attractions.

Traffic on the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge can become heavily congested during peak commute times, typically from 7:00 to 9:00 AM heading into Charleston and from 4:00 to 6:00 PM heading out toward Mount Pleasant. Delays are common during these windows, so it's best to plan your crossings outside of these hours if possible. Unfortunately, there are no convenient alternate routes for crossing the Cooper River; the next closest option is I-526, which is a significantly longer detour. Patience or off-peak travel are the best strategies.

To ensure a stress-free beach day at Isle of Palms, the key is to arrive early, especially on a summer weekend. Aim to be on the island and looking for a spot before 10 AM to have the best chance at securing a space in one of the municipal lots or a legal on-street spot. Another effective strategy is to go later in the afternoon, around 3 PM, when the first wave of beachgoers begins to depart. This allows you to enjoy the late afternoon sun and avoid the peak parking rush.

Driving to Sullivan’s Island on a peak weekend requires patience, as traffic often backs up on the Ben Sawyer Bridge leading to the island. Once you arrive, parking is exclusively on-street and can be competitive. It is crucial to park with all tires off the pavement and to pay close attention to posted signs indicating restricted areas to avoid a costly ticket. Arriving early in the morning is your best bet for finding a convenient spot and enjoying a more relaxed start to your beach day.

Folly Beach is immensely popular, and its parking is notoriously challenging during peak season. To secure a convenient parking spot on a summer weekend, you should plan to arrive very early, ideally before 9:00 AM. This gives you the best opportunity to find a space in a paid lot near the pier or a legal spot along the side streets. The main artery, Folly Road, can experience significant traffic delays, so building extra time into your travel schedule is always a wise decision.

Yes, both North Charleston and West Ashley offer a significantly simpler driving and parking experience compared to the historic peninsula. These areas are more suburban in layout, featuring wider roads, ample surface parking lots at hotels and shopping centers, and easier access to major interstates. North Charleston is particularly convenient for the airport and outlet shopping, while West Ashley provides great access to the famous plantations along the Ashley River. Choosing either location can greatly reduce the stress of navigation and parking for visitors.

A day trip to Savannah is a popular choice, and breaking up the roughly two-hour drive makes it more enjoyable. The most logical and scenic stop is the charming town of Beaufort, South Carolina, located about 90 minutes from Charleston along US-17. You can park and explore its beautiful waterfront park, browse the shops on Bay Street, and have a relaxing lunch. This turns the journey into two manageable drives and allows you to experience another gem of the Lowcountry.

The drive from Charleston to Hilton Head Island takes about two hours, and a well-placed stop can make the trip more pleasant. A popular option is to stop in the historic town of Beaufort, which is a slight but worthwhile detour off the main route. Alternatively, for a stop closer to your destination, the town of Bluffton, right before the bridge to Hilton Head, offers a charming historic district with excellent restaurants and shops. Either choice provides a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy a meal.

To enjoy a relaxed day trip to Beaufort, plan to leave Charleston after the morning rush hour, around 9:30 AM. The drive itself is a pleasant 90-minute journey through the Lowcountry. This arrival time gives you a full day to explore the historic downtown, take a carriage tour, have a leisurely lunch along the waterfront, and perhaps visit nearby Hunting Island State Park. You can then head back to Charleston in the late afternoon, comfortably avoiding the peak evening traffic.

When visiting the plantations along Ashley River Road, such as Magnolia or Middleton Place, it's wise to allow ample travel time. The drive from downtown Charleston can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, as the road is scenic and can be slow-moving. Parking at the plantations is generally plentiful and well-organized, so that is rarely a concern. The key is to plan your arrival to give yourself at least three to four hours to fully explore the extensive grounds, gardens, and historic homes before they close.

The drive from Charleston International Airport (CHS) to Kiawah or Seabrook Island typically takes between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on traffic. For first-time visitors, the most straightforward route is to take I-526 West toward Savannah, then exit onto US-17 South. From there, you will follow well-marked signs for Main Road, which becomes Bohicket Road and leads you through Johns Island. As parts of the drive are on two-lane roads, traveling during daylight hours is recommended to better acclimate to the scenic but sometimes narrow route.

For a downtown wedding, the most stress-free parking strategy is to select a large, multi-level public garage near the venue and leave your car there for the entire event. Trying to find street parking before a wedding is often difficult and adds unnecessary pressure. Garages located near Marion Square, the Gaillard Center, or the Aquarium are excellent, centrally-located options. This approach not only simplifies your arrival but also makes for a much easier and more predictable departure when the celebration concludes.

Driving in Charleston during a heavy rainstorm requires extra caution due to the city's low elevation. Be especially watchful for significant standing water at intersections and in low-lying areas, a condition known locally as nuisance flooding. Visibility can be severely reduced, so it is essential to slow down and increase your following distance. Never attempt to drive through flooded roadways, as the water is often much deeper than it appears and can damage your vehicle or cause you to stall.

During major events like the Cooper River Bridge Run, Spoleto Festival USA, or the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE), expect significant road closures and detours throughout the downtown peninsula. The areas most impacted are typically around Marion Square, the King Street and Meeting Street corridors, and the streets surrounding the Gaillard Center and Charleston Gaol. Access to and from the Ravenel Bridge can also be restricted. During these times, it is best to park your car in a garage and rely on walking or ride-sharing services.

For visitors, one of the most challenging spots is the interchange where I-26 ends and merges with the Septima Clark Parkway (the Crosstown) and US-17. This area involves multiple lanes merging and splitting in quick succession to go north, south, or into downtown. It can be overwhelming if you're not prepared. Having a GPS active and knowing which lane you need to be in well ahead of the interchange is the best way to navigate it smoothly.

The drive from Charleston to Myrtle Beach takes approximately two hours, and a planned break can make the trip more enjoyable. A perfect place to stop is the historic city of Georgetown, which is located roughly at the halfway point along US-17. You can park along its scenic Harborwalk, stretch your legs, and find numerous local restaurants for a quick lunch or coffee. This pleasant stop breaks the drive into two manageable one-hour segments.

The drive from Charleston to Greenville is about three and a half hours, making a midway stop a great idea. The most logical place to break up the journey is in Columbia, the state capital, which is situated about two hours from Charleston along I-26. This provides an excellent opportunity to have lunch, see the State House grounds, or take a walk in Finlay Park. Stopping in Columbia effectively divides the trip into two distinct, more manageable legs.

Interstate 26 is the primary corridor connecting Charleston with the state capital, Columbia. While much of the drive is smooth, you should anticipate potential congestion during typical rush hours when leaving Charleston in the afternoon or approaching Columbia. The stretch of I-26 near the I-77 and I-20 interchanges in Columbia is particularly prone to slowdowns. On holiday weekends, the entire route can experience heavier-than-usual traffic, so it's wise to budget extra time for your journey.

While South Carolina's interstate highways are well-equipped with services, some of the more rural state highways require advance planning. The scenic routes through the Lowcountry between Charleston and the Georgia border, or through the rural Pee Dee region in the northeast, can have long stretches between towns with gas stations and restaurants. When venturing off the main interstates in these areas, it's a good practice to ensure you have ample fuel and to map out your stops in larger towns ahead of time.

Driving at night in the rural Lowcountry presents a very different experience from the city. Many of the two-lane roads outside of towns have limited or no street lighting, making visibility a primary concern. It is also crucial to be vigilant for wildlife, as deer are frequently seen along the roadsides after dusk. Driving at a cautious speed and using your high beams when there is no oncoming traffic will help ensure a safe journey through the beautiful but dark rural landscape.

For families needing a playground break, there are several excellent and convenient options. In Mount Pleasant, Memorial Waterfront Park, located at the base of the Ravenel Bridge, features a large, nautical-themed playground with stunning views. In West Ashley, Ackerman Park is another great choice with plenty of space to run around. Both parks are easily accessible from major roadways and provide a perfect, low-stress opportunity for kids to burn off some energy.

A great orientation drive is to trace the perimeter of the lower peninsula. From the northern part of downtown, drive south on Meeting Street all the way down to The Battery, where you can see Fort Sumter in the distance. Then, follow the curve of the road along Murray Boulevard with the Ashley River on your right. Finally, head back north on a major street like King Street to get a feel for the main shopping and dining district. This loop provides a fantastic overview of the city's layout and historic charm.

To avoid the notorious return traffic from the barrier islands like Folly Beach or Isle of Palms, timing is everything. The heaviest congestion heading back to the mainland typically occurs between 3:00 PM and 5:30 PM on a sunny weekend day. To bypass this, you can either plan to leave the beach before 2:00 PM or stay later and enjoy dinner on the island, departing after 6:00 PM. This strategy allows you to miss the peak rush and have a much more relaxed drive back.

This is a common situation for travelers, and the best approach is to use your rental car as a secure locker. Keep your luggage safely stored out of sight in the trunk of the car. Then, find a public parking garage in the neighborhood you wish to explore, such as near the City Market or the South Carolina Aquarium. This allows you to park securely and begin enjoying the city on foot for a few hours until your accommodation is ready.

To make a combined Charleston and Myrtle Beach trip most efficient, consider flying into one city's airport and out of the other's. For instance, you could fly into Charleston (CHS), rent a car, and spend several days exploring the area. Afterwards, you can take the scenic two-hour drive up the coast to Myrtle Beach for the second part of your vacation, and then fly home from Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR). This one-way itinerary eliminates the need for backtracking and maximizes your vacation time.

For a morning flight, it's crucial to build a buffer for unpredictable traffic. If you are leaving from the downtown peninsula during weekday morning commute hours (roughly 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM), you should allow at least 45 to 60 minutes for the drive to the airport. This accounts for potential slowdowns on I-26 and gives you enough time for the car return process. On weekends or outside of rush hour, 30-40 minutes is often sufficient, but it's always better to arrive early and relaxed.

For a stress-free early morning departure, a good rule of thumb is to leave your downtown hotel approximately two hours before your flight time. This schedule allocates about 30 minutes for the drive to the airport in pre-dawn, traffic-free conditions. It also provides a comfortable 15-20 minutes to return your rental car and walk to the terminal, leaving you with over an hour to check your bags and clear security without feeling rushed.

A top tip for first-time drivers in Charleston is to anticipate and respect the prevalence of one-way streets, which can change direction unexpectedly. Another key piece of advice is to be patient and yield to pedestrians and horse-drawn carriages, as they often have the right of way. Finally, many visitors wish they had planned their parking strategy in advance; deciding to use a public garage from the start can save a significant amount of time and frustration compared to circling for a rare on-street spot.

A day trip to Edisto Beach and Botany Bay is a fantastic way to see the wilder side of the Lowcountry. The drive from Charleston is about one hour. The most critical piece of planning is for Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve, as its access road and famous beach are impassable during high tide. You must check the tide charts online before you go and time your visit for the hours around low tide to ensure you can get in and out.