Smarter Car Renting

Here are car rental tips from the road trip-seasoned editors of RoadsideAmerica.com:

•  Credit Cards for Pick-Up: Many agencies require a credit card upon pick-up. Yes, Opie, we live in that kind of world. So make sure you are in good standing with your "plastic." Call the car rental agency in Charleston before arrival or verify in the rental policy and rules to see which forms of payment they accept.

•  Leave Nothing Behind: At a road trip's end, we find we've accumulated souvenirs, kitschy mementoes, and piles of brochures from tourist attractions. These treasures prove you really traveled -- that it wasn't just some wacky delusion. When dropping off your rental car, carefully check every door pocket, drink holder and storage bin for these keepsakes. The rental car company sure doesn't have any use for them.

•  Car Types: When selecting a car type, remember it's not just about how cool you'll appear. The car selection page details show an average of how many people and how many pieces of luggage can comfortably fit in each car type. Pay attention to the specifics to be certain they meet your needs before booking.

Click here to see Charleston attractions

Charleston SC Area Attractions

• Addison Hatfield Gallery
• Aiken-Rhett House Museum
• American Military Museum
• Arts of the Ashley
• Audubon Gallery
• Avery Research Center
• Blackbaud Stadium
• Calhoun Mansion
• Charleston Convention Center
• Charleston Museum
• Charleston Southern University
• Charleston Walk
• Chippers Family Golf Center
• Civil War Walk
• Classic Carriage Tours
• College of Charleston
• Confederate Museum
• Downtown Charleston

Charleston rental guide