Portland Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Portland

Renting a car in and around Portland, Oregon, offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and travel plans, allowing for a more relaxed sightseeing experience. Families can visit popular attractions like Tom McCall Waterfront Park, which is ideal for outdoor activities, or the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, perfect for cultural and family experiences. A short drive takes you to the Portland Japanese Garden, an oasis of tranquility. Beyond the city, you can explore nearby destinations such as Beaverton, known for its wineries and Tualatin Hills Nature Park, or Tigard, where you can enjoy parks like Summerlake City Park. Renting a car makes it easy to travel between these locations, ensuring that you can enjoy all the outdoor, city-themed, and family-friendly experiences that Portland has to offer without the hassle of public transportation. Whether you're travelling solo, with family, or seeking outdoor adventures, a rental car enhances your trip by providing the convenience to uncover the many hidden gems of the region.

Most popular car rentals in Portland

• Midsize SUV: This car type accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. The spacious interior provides comfort and ample luggage space, allowing you to explore Portland and its surroundings without feeling cramped. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely drive or heading out for a day of adventure, a midsize SUV offers the versatility and convenience you need.
• Compact: Perfect for solo travellers, couples, or smaller families, this car option accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 medium suitcases. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate the bustling streets of Portland while ensuring you have enough room for your belongings. This choice is ideal for those looking for a balance of efficiency and comfort, as it allows for flexible travel plans without sacrificing convenience.
• Fullsize: With the capacity to accommodate 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize car is perfect for families and groups. This option provides ample space for both passengers and luggage, making it suitable for longer trips or multi-destination travels. Renting a fullsize car allows you to comfortably explore Portland while enjoying the freedom of a flexible itinerary.

Top rated car suppliers in Portland

• Alamo Rent A Car: Known for its friendly service, Alamo Rent A Car has a rental location in Portland. This supplier is popular among travellers for offering Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, making it an excellent choice for those who require versatile vehicles for their adventures in and around the city.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Also recognized for its friendly service, Dollar Rent A Car operates a rental location in Portland. Travellers appreciate the affordability and convenience, with Midsize and Compact cars being the most booked options. This supplier is ideal for those looking for practicality and value during their trip.
• Enterprise: For maximum convenience, Enterprise boasts over 15 rental locations throughout Portland, ensuring you’re never far from your vehicle. This supplier excels in customer satisfaction and offers a diverse selection of Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, catering to various travel needs while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Portland.

Where to stay in Portland

• Downtown Portland: This vibrant neighbourhood is ideal for family and business-themed experiences. Downtown Portland is home to key attractions such as the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry and the Portland Japanese Garden, both of which are within proximity. Visitors can enjoy urban parks like Tom McCall Waterfront Park, perfect for outdoor activities. The area features numerous dining options, including wineries and restaurants, making it a convenient base for exploring the city's cultural and entertainment venues.
• Northeast Portland: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor activities, Northeast Portland offers easy access to attractions like The Grotto and Tom McCall Waterfront Park. This neighbourhood boasts several shopping centres and arena entertainment facilities. With a variety of dining options, including local wineries and restaurants, it is a great place to relax after a day of exploration. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is also nearby, providing educational experiences for visitors of all ages.
• Beaverton: A city located in the Portland area, Beaverton is perfect for family and business travellers alike. Key points of interest include the Wineries of Washington County Oregon and Tualatin Hills Nature Park, offering a mix of natural beauty and local culture. Beaverton features shopping centres and restaurants, including options for wine enthusiasts. Whether you're exploring urban parks or attending events at local facilities, Beaverton provides a welcoming atmosphere for your stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Portland

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, Expedia's filters can assist you in finding the perfect fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to access lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years of age. Always verify the age restrictions prior to making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals implement a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the most economical choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which can also be convenient. Just ensure the car is returned empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, though the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Portland

The best time to rent a car in and around Portland is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. January and February are typically the quietest months for rentals, making them ideal for budget-conscious travellers. Following this, April offers slightly low prices with average demand, while March and May see average pricing and demand. June, however, tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand, leading into the busy summer season.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.8°F (4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	62.4°F (16.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	70.3°F (21.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	45.5°F (7.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average