Getting There and Around

The most centrally located airport is Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport; it’s about 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, a half-hour from Hilton Head Island, and less than two hours from Charleston.

Less convenient to the rest of the region because of its location well north of the city is Charleston International Airport, about 20 miles north of Charleston, a 30-minute drive, minimum, from town. It’s two hours from Charleston to Savannah, making the Charleston Airport at least 2.5 hours from Savannah.

Some travelers are using Jacksonville International Airport, about 20 miles north of Jacksonville, Florida. While it’s a two-hour drive from Savannah, this airport’s proximity to the attractions south of Savannah makes it attractive for some visitors, who can often find a good deal and make it worthwhile to take the drive.

I-95 is the dominant north–south interstate highway in the region, with the east–west interstates of I-16 and I-26 serving Savannah and Charleston, respectively.

The ideal way to get the full experience is to stay awhile in one or both cities, relying mostly on your own two feet for transportation, and visit outlying areas in your personal vehicle or a rental car. Outside the two main urban areas, public transportation is slim to none, so a vehicle is mandatory.

What to Take

Unless you’re coming in the winter to take advantage of lower rates or to enjoy the seasonal cheer, there’s no need for a heavy jacket. A sweater or windbreaker will do fine for chillier days. Also note that the ocean and the larger rivers can generate some surprisingly crisp breezes, even on what otherwise might be a warm day.

Because of the area’s temperate climate, perspiration is likely to be a constant travel companion; pack accordingly. Whatever you wear, stay with natural fabrics such as cotton. The humidity and generally warm weather combine for a miserable experience with polyester and other synthetic fabrics.

Unless you’re coming in the hottest days of summer or the coldest part of winter—both unlikely scenarios—plan on a trip to a drugstore or supermarket to buy some bug spray or Skin So Soft, an Avon product that also keeps away the gnats.

© Jim Morekis from Moon Charleston & Savannah, 4th Edition