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Car rental at Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)

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Rental cars in Columbia Metropolitan Airport

Average daily prices for a 3-day trip

Columbia Metropolitan Airport, EN

Car rental at Columbia Metropolitan Airport

Columbia Metropolitan Airport serves as your gateway to South Carolina's vibrant capital city, where historic charm meets modern Southern hospitality. You'll discover tree-lined streets, antebellum architecture, and the scenic Congaree River winding through the heart of the city. From the bustling University of South Carolina campus to the tranquil gardens and parks scattered throughout the metropolitan area, Columbia offers diverse experiences for every traveler. Securing a rental car enhances your visit by providing the freedom to explore both urban attractions and the beautiful countryside that surrounds this welcoming Southern destination.

Why choose Turo?

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Enjoy a streamlined airport experience

100+ airports across the US and Canada let Turo hosts bring cars to airport parking lots and garages. Some smaller airports even allow curbside pickup at the terminal.*

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Get personalized service from a local host

Turo hosts are everyday entrepreneurs who share cars in their communities.

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Relax with support & damage protection

24/7 support and roadside assistance mean help is just a call away, plus you can choose from a range of protection plans.

Recent reviews

Kia Optima 2015

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Recomiendo ampliamente a este anfitrión y su servicio. Toda la experiencia con Turo fue excelente: fácil, económica, rápida y muy eficiente. La comunicación fue impecable de principio a fin; siempre estuvo disponible, respondió de inmediato y se aseguró de que todo saliera perfecto. Viajé a Fort Jackson para asistir a la graduación militar de mi hijo, durante Julio 15-16th un momento muy importante para nuestra familia, y tener un vehículo tan limpio, cómodo y confiable hizo que el viaje fuera mucho más tranquilo y especial. Sin duda volvería a rentar con este anfitrión y lo recomendaría con toda confianza a cualquier persona. Es, por mucho, una de las mejores experiencias de renta de automóvil que he tenido. ¡Muchas gracias por un servicio excepcional! I highly recommend this host and their service! My entire Turo experience was outstanding—easy, affordable, fast, and incredibly efficient. Communication was excellent from beginning to end. The host was always responsive, professional, and made sure everything went smoothly. I traveled to Fort Jackson for my son’s Army graduation July 15-16th , which was a very special and meaningful occasion for my family. Having such a clean, comfortable, and reliable vehicle made the entire trip even more enjoyable and completely stress-free. I would gladly rent from this host again and confidently recommend them to anyone. This was, without a doubt, one of the best car rental experiences I’ve ever had. Thank you for providing such exceptional service! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Kardash
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ANGELA
Audi TT 2013

This little car was a joy to rent. Easy to maneuver and didn't take much to fill it up, even though I only used premium gas. Sid was professional and easy to conversate with. Any time I reached out to him, he responded IMMEDIATELY or at LEAST w/in 5-10 mins. Instructions for pick up and return was clear and easy to understand. One thing, if you have long legs like I DO, you may want to skip this one. That's the only thing, my legs were cramped, but I should've known better for the type of vehicle this is. I guess I got caught up in the cuteness. Would I book it again, yes.

ANGELA
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Jermenica
Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2025

The car was amazing and so was the host!! Will definitely rent again!!

Jermenica
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Ashlynn
Honda Accord 2020

The car was perfect and it rode very well. James communicated efficiently and quickly. I would rent from him again!

Ashlynn
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Kia Optima 2018

Pick up was easy and simple. The car was clean. Josh was very helpful and understanding due to extension.

Denise
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Chevrolet Malibu 2021

The absolute best would highly recommend to anybody

Kevin
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Maria
Acura TLX 2016

Very responsive. Comfortable car. Easy instructions. I would recommend Bernie!

Maria
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Devon
Kia K4 2025

The car was perfect and the car owner was very professional and helpful. 10/10 I would book again.

Devon
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Nissan Altima 2023

Although I only had it for a day, it was still a clean, good smelling, reliable car.

Nakasha
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Sabrina
Nissan Altima 2022

I loved the car, wonderful communication as well, will definitely book again

Sabrina
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Kia Optima 2019

The car was clean and in excellent shape. Pick up was quick and easy. Highly recommend.

Kevin
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Kia Optima 2018

Car quality, communication and cleanliness was great!! Great host. Thanks again for the last minute accommodation!

Courtny
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Ford Fusion Hybrid 2013

Car was a little rough around the edges but was clean and drive well! Great communication with the host was very responsive and pleasant

Meghan
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Bryson
Honda Accord 2025

Royal’s 2025 Accord was a great option for my business trip. The car was clean and drove well. His communication was excellent and the whole process was very smooth. The service delivered from Turo and Royal was more expedited and quicker than traditional rental services. Highly recommend.

Bryson
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Kia K4 2026

Nice ride ! Customer service was amazing ! I would definitely book again !!!

Keyona
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Caesar
Hyundai Sonata 2021

Pick up and drop off was so easy. Truly a shameless experience I’ll definitely be back.

Caesar
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JUSTIN
Nissan Altima 2025

10/10 experience. The Nissan was great on gas and the team was very helpful throughout the entire process!

JUSTIN
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Akeem
Tesla Model 3 2020

Thank you to the gracious hosts for a for being very accommodating. This is the most amazing vehicle I have ever driven and not driven.

Akeem
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Qua
Tesla Model 3 2021

Very clean and smooth process! I would highly recommend!

Qua
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Discover Columbia's attractions and scenic drives from Columbia Metropolitan Airport

Columbia Metropolitan Airport positions you perfectly to explore South Carolina's capital and its surrounding treasures. You can venture to the historic State House with its stunning architecture, wander through the renowned Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, or explore the vibrant Vista district filled with galleries and restaurants. The scenic Congaree National Park offers pristine wilderness just outside the city, while Lake Murray provides waterfront recreation opportunities. Having a rental car transforms your Columbia experience, allowing you to navigate between downtown cultural sites, university areas, and natural attractions with complete independence and comfort.


Historic State House and government district exploration

The South Carolina State House stands as Columbia's crown jewel, featuring magnificent bronze stars marking Civil War damage and beautifully landscaped grounds perfect for leisurely strolls. You'll find convenient parking options throughout the government district, making it easy to explore multiple historic buildings and monuments in one visit. The surrounding area includes the Governor's Mansion and various museums that showcase the state's rich heritage. Your rental car provides the flexibility to visit during optimal lighting for photography and allows you to combine this historic tour with other downtown attractions without worrying about transportation schedules or walking distances between sites.


Riverbanks Zoo and Garden adventure

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden offers world-class wildlife exhibits and stunning botanical displays that captivate visitors of all ages. The facility features ample parking areas, and you'll appreciate having your rental car nearby for storing purchases from the gift shop or taking breaks during longer visits. The zoo's location along the Saluda River provides beautiful scenic views, and nearby walking trails extend your outdoor experience. Having reliable transportation allows you to plan your visit according to feeding times and special events while maintaining the flexibility to explore other West Columbia attractions in the same area.


University of South Carolina campus and surrounding areas

The University of South Carolina campus brings youthful energy to Columbia's heart, featuring beautiful historic buildings, the iconic Horseshoe quad, and numerous cultural venues including theaters and art galleries. You'll find various parking options throughout the campus area, though some require permits during certain hours. The surrounding Five Points district offers eclectic shopping, dining, and entertainment venues that showcase local culture. Your rental car enables you to explore both the academic atmosphere and the vibrant student-oriented businesses while providing easy access to game day events at Williams-Brice Stadium when the Gamecocks are playing at home.


Congaree National Park wilderness experience

Congaree National Park protects one of the largest intact old-growth bottomland hardwood forests in the southeastern United States, offering incredible biodiversity and towering champion trees. The park provides well-maintained parking facilities at the visitor center, where you can gather maps and information before exploring the various hiking trails. Your rental car ensures comfortable transportation to this natural wonder while carrying any gear you might need for photography, birdwatching, or extended hiking adventures through the pristine wilderness that feels worlds away from urban Columbia.


Lake Murray recreational opportunities

Lake Murray stretches across 50,000 acres of pristine water, offering excellent opportunities for boating, swimming, fishing, and waterfront dining at various marinas and restaurants along its shores. Multiple access points around the lake provide parking areas where you can safely leave your rental car while enjoying water activities or lakeside picnics. The scenic drive around portions of the lake showcases beautiful homes, coves, and recreational areas that highlight why locals consider this their favorite escape. Having a rental car allows you to discover hidden gems along the shoreline and visit multiple lake access points to find your perfect spot for relaxation or adventure.

Turo car rental vs. traditional rental

Turo Car rental

  • App-based experience

  • No waiting in line

  • 1,600+ unique makes & models

  • Get the exact car you choose

  • Delivery options & thousands of pickup locations

  • Cars rented out by local small businesses

  • Vehicles and hosts rated by guests

Traditional rental

  • Standard rental counter experience

  • Waiting in line

  • Limited selection

  • Get a type of vehicle “or similar”

  • Pickup at retail locations

  • Owned by large corporations

  • No vehicle ratings

Frequently asked questions in Columbia Metropolitan Airport

What are the most popular road trip routes from Columbia Metropolitan Airport?

Popular drives from Columbia include heading southeast to Charleston via I-26, or northwest toward the Blue Ridge Mountains and Greenville. The Columbia area serves as an excellent starting point for exploring South Carolina's diverse landscapes. Many visitors also enjoy day trips to nearby state parks and historic sites throughout the metropolitan region.

How does car rental insurance work on Turo?

No, you don't need personal insurance coverage to rent a car on Turo. In the US, any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host's vehicle would kick in before your Turo protection plan. When booking a car in the US, you'll choose between three protection plans — Premier (eligibility requirements apply), Standard, or Minimum — to get the level of protection that's right for you. On each trip, you're covered with third-party automobile liability insurance provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company.* In New York state, you'll also choose between Premier (if available), Standard, or Minimum. With each plan, you're covered with liability insurance of $1,250,000.* Protection plans for New York trips also include access to roadside assistance, priority phone support, and 24/7 customer assistance.

How do I drive from Columbia Metropolitan Airport to downtown?

From Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE), take Airport Boulevard east toward US-302, then merge onto I-126 West toward Columbia. Follow I-126 for several miles until you reach downtown Columbia, where the interstate becomes Elmwood Avenue. This route provides the most direct path from the airport to the city center.

What documents and paperwork do I need to rent a car on Turo?

To rent a car on Turo, you must create a Turo account, have a valid driver's license, get approved to drive on Turo, and be 18 years old or older in the US, 21 years old or older in Australia, or 23 years old or older in Canada. In the UK, you must be 21 years old or older and have held a UK or EU license for at least one year, or another driver's license for at least two years. In France you must be 18 years old or older and have held a driver's license for at least 2 years, longer for certain makes and models of vehicles. When you're booking your first trip, you'll go through a quick approval process by entering your driver's license and some other information. In most cases, you'll get approved immediately, and you'll be set for all future road trips, day trips, and business trips!

What driving rules should I know before leaving the airport?

South Carolina requires all drivers to have a valid driver's license and follow right-hand traffic patterns. Speed limits are strictly enforced throughout the Columbia metropolitan area, with residential zones typically posted at 25-35 mph. Always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and maintain safe following distances on busy roads near Columbia Metropolitan Airport.

Are there toll roads near Columbia Metropolitan Airport?

No toll roads operate in the Columbia area or around Columbia Metropolitan Airport. All major highways and interstates in the West Columbia and greater metropolitan region are free to use. This makes exploring the Columbia area convenient without worrying about toll fees during your visit.

What kind of license do I need to rent a car on Turo?

Turo accepts valid licenses (not expired, suspended, or revoked) that allow for full driving privileges; this includes driver's licenses issued outside of the US. Licenses that Turo doesn't accept in the US include any that have expired, have been altered, are conditional, probational, provisional, or restricted. Learner's permits/instruction permits are not accepted.

Where can I find gas stations near Columbia Metropolitan Airport?

Several gas stations are located along Airport Boulevard and US-302 within a short drive of Columbia Metropolitan Airport. You'll find additional fuel options along I-126 and throughout West Columbia. The airport area maintains good access to gas stations for convenient refueling before returning your rental car.

Why should I rent a car at Columbia Metropolitan Airport?

A car rental from Columbia Metropolitan Airport gives you freedom to explore South Carolina's capital region at your own pace. The Columbia metropolitan area features numerous attractions, historic sites, and natural areas that are best accessed by personal vehicle. Having your own transportation eliminates dependence on limited public transit options in the region.

Do I need to be a certain age to rent a car on Turo?

To rent a car on Turo in the US, you must be 18 years old or older.

Is it possible to return a car on a Sunday?

Yes, you can return a car on Sunday at Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE). Follow your host’s instructions for the designated pickup and drop-off area at the airport, and coordinate your return time directly with your host through the Turo app.

What are the policies for returning a car on time?

Please return the car at the agreed-upon time and location specified in your trip details. If you need to extend your trip, request a trip extension via the Turo app. Be sure to follow any specific return instructions provided for Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE), including parking in the designated areas and notifying your host of the vehicle's location.

Are weekend car rentals typically pricier than weekday rentals?

Rates can vary depending on the day of the week. Look out for savings on longer bookings and try adjusting your trip dates to find the best price for your schedule.

Is there a dedicated area for picking up Turo vehicles at Columbia Metropolitan Airport?

Yes, at Columbia Metropolitan Airport, guests should meet their host in person at the curbside lane in front of the Park & Fly Premier lot for pickup. Refer to the Turo app for information about pickup and drop-off. If you need any additional information, you can contact your host after booking.

  1. * Est. daily price. Search for up to date price information.