Portland Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Portland

Renting a car in Portland, Maine, offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your needs. This is especially beneficial for families and those looking for outdoor and scenic experiences.

There are numerous attractions to discover, such as the Portland Museum of Art, which provides rich cultural experiences, and East End Beach, perfect for a relaxing day by the water. The Eastern Promenade is an ideal urban park for family outings and outdoor adventures. Beyond Portland, you can conveniently visit nearby destinations like South Portland, just 3 km away, where you can see Willard Beach and the historic Portland Head Light. Downtown Portland and the Old Port neighbourhood also offer a variety of attractions, including the Portland Museum of Art and Wadsworth-Longfellow House. Having a rental car allows you to navigate these sites with ease and enjoy everything Portland has to offer without relying on public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in Portland

• Midsize: This car type is a popular choice among travellers in Portland, accommodating up to 5 passengers along with 3 large suitcases. It is ideal for couples and families looking for a comfortable ride and ample space for their belongings. The midsize option strikes a balance between easy manoeuvrability and sufficient storage, making it perfect for exploring the attractions of Portland at your leisure.
• Standard Van: Perfect for larger groups, the standard van accommodates up to 8 travellers and can hold up to 6 large suitcases. This option is particularly suited for large families or groups of friends who want to travel together without compromising on space. With a standard van, everyone can enjoy a relaxed and spacious journey as you explore the beautiful surroundings of Portland.
• Compact: The compact car is a versatile choice for those travelling solo or with a partner, as it comfortably fits 5 passengers and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for couples and families who prefer a smaller vehicle that offers convenience and easy parking. With its efficient size, the compact car provides a practical solution for navigating the streets of Portland while still having enough room for your essentials.

Top rated car suppliers in Portland

• Budget: Budget operates with one rental location in Portland, making it a convenient choice for travellers. Known for offering a range of vehicles, the most booked options include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs. This supplier is appreciated for its flexibility, allowing you to explore the attractions around Portland at your own pace while managing your luggage easily.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo has one rental location in Portland and is highly regarded for its customer service. The most popular vehicles among travellers are Midsize and Compact SUVs, which provide comfort and space for your journey. Alamo is recognized for its efficient service, making it a reliable option for those looking to enjoy a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
• Dollar Rent A Car: With one rental location in Portland, Dollar Rent A Car is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers. The most booked vehicles include Midsize and Economy cars, offering economical options for exploring the area. Customers appreciate Dollar's straightforward process and value for money, making it a suitable supplier for those who want to make the most of their trip while keeping costs manageable.

Where to stay in and around Portland

• South Portland: Located 3 km from Portland, South Portland offers a charming blend of family-friendly activities and city-themed experiences. Visitors can enjoy the scenic Willard Beach and explore the historic Portland Head Light. For art enthusiasts, the Portland Museum of Art is also nearby. The area boasts shopping centres and a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a great choice for both leisure and business travellers.
• Downtown Portland: Situated in the heart of Portland, Downtown Portland is perfect for those seeking outdoor activities and beautiful scenery. The neighbourhood is home to the Portland Museum of Art and the historic Wadsworth-Longfellow House, both ideal for cultural exploration. With access to shopping centres and a variety of dining options, including wineries, Downtown Portland caters to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, providing a vibrant urban experience.
• Old Port: Old Port is a lively neighbourhood known for its outdoor settings and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by exploring the Portland Museum of Art and the iconic Portland Head Light. The area also features East End Beach, perfect for relaxing by the water. With a variety of restaurants and breweries nearby, Old Port offers a delightful blend of entertainment, dining, and scenic views.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly options, use the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to secure better rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles tend to be more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is typically the best option. Other rentals may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience can make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and offers peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It’s easy to include car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, seek rentals that provide unlimited mileage to evade 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 value time to rent a car in and around Portland is January, as it features slightly low prices despite moderately high demand. Nearby months like March and April also offer slightly low prices with average demand, making them decent choices. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand. August continues this trend, seeing similarly high prices and moderately high demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	26.1°F (-3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
February	27.0°F (-2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	33.4°F (0.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	43.9°F (6.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
June	61.9°F (16.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
July	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	68.5°F (20.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
December	32.9°F (0.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average