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Find competitive rental car prices at Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) with Road Genius. Compare rates for SUVs, compact cars, minivans and reserve with no booking fees. All major rental brands are just steps from baggage claim so pickup is quick and our real time search lets you lock in low rates for your Columbia SC airport car rental before cruising to downtown, Fort Jackson or Congaree National Park.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Map of campervan rental depots near 532514

Columbia Metropolitan Airport offers several rental car options at convenient counter locations:

Rental Company Location Hours
Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty On-site in baggage claim area Approximately 7:00 AM-11:00 PM (aligned to flight schedules)

All rental car counters at CAE are located in the baggage claim area of the terminal. Vehicles are parked in the adjacent garage/lot structure. No shuttle is required to reach the rental cars.

Frequent renters can use express rental programs (National's Emerald Club, Hertz Gold Plus, etc.) to bypass the counter and go directly to their vehicles in some cases.

Car Rental Prices

How much does it cost to rent a car at Columbia Metropolitan Airport?

On average, car rentals at Columbia Metropolitan Airport cost around $79 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $20 per day.

How to save?

  • Compare CAE vs downtown pick-ups: City branches often run 10-15 % lower rates. Even after a quick rideshare to/from the airport you can come out ahead.

  • Play with your dates: Shifting pick-up to Tue-Thu or adding a day to trigger a weekly rate can drop the daily cost.

  • Lock in early for peak events: USC football weekends, May graduations and Masters week spike prices fast—reserve 2-3 months out, but choose a deal you can cancel if rates fall.

  • Re-check prices: Keep a refundable booking, then scan again a week or two before you travel; CAE rates often dip once the first rush of reservations clears.

  • Skip airport gas stations: Top up in Cayce or West Columbia (5-7 cents/gal cheaper) instead of the on-airport pumps or pricey prepaid fuel.
Car rental prices at Columbia Metropolitan Airport 2025/2026

Driving Tips

Airport Parking (if returning to CAE):

  • Hourly and daily spaces are available in the garage next to the terminal
  • An economy lot provides lower-cost options for longer stays

Downtown Columbia Parking:

  • Street meters require payment during posted hours on weekdays
  • City garages are located throughout downtown and charge incremental rates, sometimes offering an initial free period
  • On the USC campus, visitor permits are required on weekdays; parking is more flexible on weekends

Driving Regulations:

  • Speed limits are usually 70 mph on interstates, 55 mph on highways and 35-45 mph on major urban roads
  • School zones are 25 mph when lights are flashing
  • South Carolina law requires headlights when wipers are in use
  • Seat belts are required for all occupants
  • The state does not use automated speed or red-light cameras
  • Drivers must move over or slow down for emergency vehicles stopped on the roadside
Why rent a car in Columbia

Get a rental car so you can easily:

  • Downtown Columbia – South Carolina State House, Vista district

  • University of South Carolina – campus, Williams–Brice Stadium

  • Fort Jackson – base visitor center, graduation ceremonies

  • Congaree National Park – boardwalk trail, cypress forest

  • Lake Murray – marinas, parks

  • Charleston – downtown, beaches

Local Rental Locations

Driving Distances from Columbia Airport

FAQs

How far is CAE from downtown Columbia?

  • It's about 8 miles (13 km) away. The drive usually takes 15 to 20 minutes on I-26 and I-126.

What are the operating hours for rental car companies at CAE?

  • Most companies are open from about 7:00 AM until the last flight arrives, which is usually around 11:00 PM.

Is there a rental car shuttle at Columbia Airport?

  • No, you'll find all the rental car counters inside the terminal. The cars are parked in the lot right next to the building, so you don't need a shuttle.

Do I need a credit card to rent at CAE?

  • Most companies will ask for a credit card for the security deposit, which is about $200–$300. They might accept your debit card, but you'll have to meet extra requirements.

Can I return my rental outside of business hours?

  • Yes, all companies at CAE let you return your car after hours. You just need to park in the designated return area and leave the keys in the drop box.

What happens if my flight is delayed?

  • The rental companies at CAE usually watch for flight delays and will hold your reservation if your flight is late.

Do I need special insurance for driving in South Carolina?

  • South Carolina law requires you to have liability coverage. Your personal car insurance or credit card might already cover this. If not, you can buy coverage from the rental company.

Are there any roads to avoid around Columbia?

  • During rush hour, the I-26/I-20/I-126 interchange, nicknamed "Malfunction Junction," can get very busy. You might want to use other roads at these times.

Can I pick up at CAE and drop off at another location?

  • Yes, you can rent a car one-way. Most companies let you drop the car off at other places in South Carolina, like Charleston or Greenville. Some also allow out-of-state drop-offs for an extra charge.

Is Columbia Airport open 24 hours?

  • No, the terminal isn't open 24 hours. If you have a very early flight, you should check when the terminal opens. It's usually 4:30 AM.
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