South Carolina Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in South Carolina

Renting a car in South Carolina is an excellent choice for tourists seeking freedom and flexibility while exploring the state. With a car, you can visit key attractions at your own pace, making it easy to manage luggage and adapt your travel plans as needed. If you are drawn to outdoor experiences or romantic getaways, South Carolina has much to offer. For instance, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is perfect for leisurely strolls, while Broadway at the Beach provides a family-friendly atmosphere. Coligny Beach is another must-visit for those who enjoy the seaside. Additionally, with a rental car, you can conveniently travel to various destinations like Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, and North Myrtle Beach, all featuring unique attractions. Myrtle Beach boasts the Family Kingdom Amusement Park and scenic beaches, while Hilton Head Island offers the beautiful Sea Pines Forest Preserve. North Myrtle Beach is home to the Cherry Grove Fishing Pier and golf resorts. Overall, hiring a car in South Carolina enhances your trip, allowing you to explore its diverse attractions comfortably and efficiently.

Most popular car hires in South Carolina

• Midsize: This car option accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. The midsize vehicle is an excellent choice for couples and families looking for comfort and space while exploring South Carolina. Its balanced size allows for easy manoeuvrability on both urban roads and scenic routes, making it a versatile option for your journey.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, and groups, the standard SUV can seat 5 travellers and carry up to 2 medium suitcases. This option provides a higher driving position and additional space, perfect for those who appreciate comfort and a bit more room during their travels. It's well-suited for both city driving and outdoor adventures, offering flexibility in your travel plans.
• Fullsize: With the capacity to accommodate 5 travellers and hold either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize car is a fantastic choice for families and groups. This option provides ample room for passengers and luggage, ensuring a comfortable journey. Its spacious interior makes it particularly appealing for longer trips, allowing you to travel in style and comfort throughout South Carolina.

Where to stay in South Carolina

• Myrtle Beach: Myrtle Beach is a prime destination for outdoor, family, and romantic experiences. Visitors can enjoy the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, a stunning esplanade perfect for leisurely strolls. Nearby, Broadway at the Beach offers a vibrant tourist precinct for family outings, while the Family Kingdom Amusement Park caters to those seeking adventure. The area is also close to beautiful beaches and local wineries, making it ideal for relaxation and exploration.
• Hilton Head Island: Known for its outdoor and family-friendly atmosphere, Hilton Head Island provides access to stunning beaches such as Coligny Beach and Tybee Island Beach. The Sea Pines Forest Preserve offers a natural retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the local scenery. Additionally, the area features numerous resorts and golf courses, making it a great choice for those seeking leisure and sporting activities.
• North Myrtle Beach: North Myrtle Beach is an excellent spot for families and beach lovers. Visitors can explore the Cherry Grove Fishing Pier for a day by the water or relax on the sandy shores of Cherry Grove Beach. The Barefoot Resort and Golf offers accommodation and recreational opportunities, while nearby shopping centres provide ample options for dining and entertainment. This area is particularly appealing during the warmer months for beach activities.

10 tips to save on your car hire in South Carolina

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for sunny days, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are generally more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well, but ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, though the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unforeseen expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It's simple to include car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in South Carolina

The best value period to rent a car in South Carolina is January, when both prices and demand are slightly low. Following closely are November and December, which also offer moderate prices with average demand. April marks the most expensive month, with high demand that typically continues through May. This busy period can catch travellers off guard, as car hires tend to be pricier during these spring months.