Car Rental in Columbia, Mississippi

Welcome to U-Save Car Rental in Columbia, Mississippi – your go-to destination for exploring the heart of the "Gem of the Fox River"! Situated in the scenic landscapes of Mississippi, Columbia offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. At U-Save, we're thrilled to provide a diverse fleet of well-maintained vehicles, perfectly suited for your Columbia adventures. 

Whether you're discovering the rich heritage of the Marion County Historical Society Museum, enjoying a leisurely day at the Columbia Water Park, or heading to the nearby Pearl River for some outdoor fun, our reliable cars will ensure you travel in comfort and style. Our friendly team is dedicated to ensuring your rental experience is stress-free and enjoyable. So, embrace the small-town charm of Columbia and let U-Save Car Rental be your trusted companion as you explore the hidden treasures of this enchanting Mississippi gem!

Experience Our Fleet

Tips for renting a car at Columbia, Mississippi

Before you rent:

Make an informed choice. We believe in providing you with options to choose the right car for your needs with complete price transparency. At U-Save, we prioritize your peace of mind, which means rental insurance with us is not overly complicated and you are assured you are properly insured.

When you collect your Vehicle:

Think ahead. It's a good idea to map out your trip in advance, especially if you're returning the rental car to an unfamiliar location or airport. Check your confirmation email to make sure you know where to meet your agent or where the rental desk, and save the contact details to your phone for quick access.

Bring the necessary documents. While we strive to make the check-in process as simple as possible, some information is required by law. Having your reservation information, driver's license, passport and credit card ready in advance can speed up your reservation process. If you choose to self-insure, make sure that you have verifiable proof of full coverage insurance at the time of rental pickup. If you are a local renter, make sure that you have all the information required by the location to confirm your ID and address.

Conduct a car inspection. Perform a detailed walk around inspection as soon as the vehicle is received to note any existing damage on the rental agreement. The five damage hotspots that we've discovered deserve special attention. You are shielded from responsibility when you return the vehicle by disclosing any existing damage prior to leaving the location.

While you rent:

Take care. Please be advised that depending on the rental coverage you chose, you could be responsible for any damage that occurs during the rental period. Take measures to reduce the possibility of collisions leading to dings and scratches, especially in congested parking areas.

When you return your vehicle:

Complete one more vehicle inspection. Conduct a second inspection during the return procedure, and no matter how little it may look, carefully record any damage. This approach enables us to handle your refund quickly while making sure you are completely insured. The five damage hotspots should receive special attention, just as they did during the initial assessment.

Mississippi

Drive on the right side of the road

USD is the local currency

Average temperatures are 37°F (3°C) - 92°F (33°C)

Car rental columbia missisippi Normaali

Driving in Columbia & Rural Mississippi – Road Rules, Local Tips & Advice

 

Driving in Columbia and the surrounding parts of Mississippi is generally laid-back and easy. The roads are usually two-lane highways or country routes, with light traffic. However, drivers should stay cautious on narrow shoulders, unlit roads at night, and when approaching wildlife crossings — deer and armadillos are common in rural zones.

Vehicles drive on the right-hand side, and seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Speed limits typically follow these guidelines:

25–30 mph (40–48 km/h) in town and residential areas

45–55 mph (72–88 km/h) on local highways and rural roads

70 mph (113 km/h) on major highways and interstates

Be alert when driving through small-town intersections, especially those with four-way stops instead of traffic signals. Locals are usually respectful but may not always follow expected timing at stop signs. Always come to a full stop.

Right on red is legal unless posted otherwise, and drivers must yield to pedestrians.

Fuel stations are scattered around the region — generally at highway intersections or near town centers. Most accept credit and debit cards, but in more remote spots, carrying some cash is a good idea.

There are no toll roads in Mississippi, and parking is free in most places, especially in towns like Columbia. In downtown areas, you’ll find on-street parking that is usually unmetered.

Mississippi law requires headlights to be on during rain, and the state has a strict ban on texting while driving. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08%, but it’s best to avoid drinking entirely if you plan to drive — enforcement is serious, especially at night and on weekends.

FAQ – Driving in Columbia, Mississippi

Is there public transportation in Columbia?

No. Public transit is not available, and taxis or rideshares are rare. A rental car is necessary to get around.

What’s the best airport for arriving in Columbia, MS?

The nearest airports are Hattiesburg-Laurel Regional Airport (PIB) and Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT). New Orleans (MSY) and Jackson (JAN) are also options within 2–2.5 hours.

Is it safe to drive at night in rural Mississippi?

Generally yes, but watch for wildlife, poor lighting, and unpaved shoulders. Use high beams when appropriate and reduce speed on winding roads.

Are there tolls or parking fees?

No tolls are found in this area, and parking is usually free everywhere.

Do I need an international driver’s permit?

If you’re visiting from abroad and your license is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, especially if you rent a car.