Car Rental Bristol, ME

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Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Bristol, Maine, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Bristol, Maine, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Bristol, Maine, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Bristol, Maine, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Bristol car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Bristol

Renting a car in Bristol, Maine, provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, located 9 miles away, perfect for family outings or romantic experiences. The nearby Boothbay-Harbor-Hotels.d6057298.Travel-Guide-Hotels >Boothbay Harbor Marina, just 8 miles from Bristol, offers opportunities for adventure and beach-related activities. Additionally, Cabbage Island, also 8 miles away, is a great spot for outdoor fun.

A rental car makes it convenient to explore nearby cities like Boothbay and Pemaquid, both within a short distance of Bristol. Whether you're traveling with family, carrying luggage, or seeking outdoor adventures, having your own vehicle simplifies your travel plans. You can manage your itinerary without relying on public transportation, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip. The scenic drives around Bristol allow you to appreciate the beautiful landscapes of coastal Maine while accessing various attractions effortlessly. Embrace the adventure of exploring Bristol and its surroundings with the convenience of a rental car.

Where to stay around Bristol

  • Boothbay Harbor: Located 8 miles from Bristol, Boothbay Harbor is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and scenic views. The area offers access to beautiful hiking trails, a national state park, and a marina ideal for beach vacations. Don't miss highlights like the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, perfect for families and romantic outings, and Cabbage Island, which is great for beach activities. Boothbay Harbor also features a variety of restaurants and wineries for dining options.
  • East Boothbay: Situated 6 miles from Bristol, East Boothbay is another fantastic destination for those who appreciate the outdoors and stunning landscapes. The area boasts various recreational activities, including hiking and golfing, alongside nearby beaches and a lake. Key points of interest include the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens and the Boothbay Harbor Marina. East Boothbay offers delightful restaurants specializing in seafood and sweet treats, making it a lovely spot for food lovers.
  • Boothbay: Also 8 miles from Bristol, Boothbay is known for its adventurous spirit and picturesque scenery. Visitors can explore hiking trails, a national state park, and nearby beaches. Attractions like the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens and Cabbage Island are accessible, providing options for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The local dining scene features restaurants and sweet treat shops, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience after a day of exploring.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and specific vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This restriction can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is typically the most cost-effective option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to return the car empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
  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 unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Bristol

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Bristol into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Bristol and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Bristol

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Bristol. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Bristol

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book .

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Bristol?
You can find cheap car rentals in Bristol from $11 a day with Dollar Rent A Car's special cars. Avis and Budget also provide competitive rates, with special vehicles available from $14 a day. For slightly more space, you can find midsize 2 or 4 door cars from Dollar starting at $16 a day, or economy 2 or 4 door cars from Budget starting at $17 a day. Comparing these suppliers on Expedia can help you find a cheap car rental in Bristol that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Bristol.
What are the best luxury car companies in Bristol?
For luxury car rental in Bristol, Alamo Rent A Car and Avis offer premium options. Alamo provides premium crossover vehicles starting from $33 a day and fullsize SUVs from $40 a day. Avis also features fullsize SUVs starting from $40 a day. These luxury car rentals offer enhanced comfort and features for a more sophisticated travel experience in Bristol. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Bristol.
Can I rent a car one-way in Bristol?
Yes, you can rent a car one-way in Bristol, which is ideal for travelers planning a road trip that ends in a different city. One-way car rentals in Bristol are available starting from $11 a day. This option provides flexibility if your travel plans involve picking up your vehicle at Portland International Jetport (PWM) and dropping it off at another location. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Bristol.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Bristol?
Yes, round-trip car rentals are readily available in Bristol, offering a convenient and often more cost-effective way to explore the area. Round-trip rentals in Bristol start from $16 a day. This option is perfect if you plan to pick up and return your vehicle at the same location, such as Portland International Jetport (PWM), avoiding potential one-way drop-off fees. Many car rental suppliers in Bristol offer reliable round-trip availability, making it easy to plan your itinerary and return the vehicle on time after your adventures. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Bristol.
What are the best car rentals in Bristol?
Car rentals in Bristol offer a wide range of vehicle types to suit various travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Compact SUV
  • Economy 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
These options provide flexibility for different trip types. For instance, economy and compact cars are excellent for city navigation and fuel efficiency, while midsize and fullsize options offer more space and comfort for longer journeys or additional passengers. SUVs are ideal for families or those needing extra luggage capacity. Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, ensuring ease of driving. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Bristol.
What are the best car rentals in Bristol for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Bristol for solo travelers are typically economy and compact classes, offering convenience and efficiency for individual exploration.
  • An economy 2 or 4 door car, starting from $18 a day, is nimble for city streets, easy to park, and fuel-efficient, fitting up to 2 medium suitcases.
  • A compact SUV, also starting from $18 a day, provides a bit more space for luggage—up to 3 medium suitcases—while remaining easy to handle.
Both options comfortably accommodate a solo traveler and their belongings. If you plan longer drives or prefer a slightly higher ride, a compact SUV offers enhanced comfort for exploring the region around Bristol. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Bristol.
What are the best car rentals in Bristol for couples?
The best car rentals in Bristol for couples offer a balance of comfort and practicality for two travelers.
  • A midsize 2 or 4 door car, starting from $21 a day, provides comfortable seating and ample trunk space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it suitable for day trips and longer drives.
  • A midsize SUV, also starting from $21 a day, offers a higher driving position and similar luggage capacity for up to 3 large suitcases, which can be beneficial for exploring diverse terrains.
For a more premium experience, a premium crossover, available from $33 a day, can enhance your journey with added features and style, perfect for scenic drives around Bristol. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Bristol.
What are the best car rentals in Bristol for families?
The best car rentals in Bristol for families prioritize space, comfort, and safety for everyone and their belongings.
  • A midsize SUV, starting from $21 a day, seats up to 5 people with room for up to 3 large suitcases and a car seat.
  • A fullsize SUV, available from $40 a day, offers even more space, seating up to 6 people with capacity for up to 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, ideal for larger families or those with more gear.
  • A mini passenger van, starting from $36 a day, is perfect for bigger groups, seating up to 8 people with ample room for up to 6 large suitcases, easily accommodating car seats and strollers.
Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice for families, offering a range of these spacious vehicles. For family trips, consider booking 4+ weeks ahead, especially for travel during the September and October peak months, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability. Always ensure you have enough space for luggage and any necessary child safety seats. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Bristol.
Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Bristol?
Yes, you can find electric and hybrid car rental options in Bristol from several providers, offering an eco-friendly way to explore. Dollar Rent A Car and Avis both provide electric vehicles starting from $11 a day, and hybrid options are available from Alamo Rent A Car, Enterprise, Dollar Rent A Car, Avis, and Budget, all starting from $11 a day. These vehicles offer a great way to save on fuel costs during your trip. Planning your route with charging stops in mind is always a good practice for longer journeys with an electric vehicle.
What is the best time to book a car in Bristol?
The best time to book a car rental in Bristol to find competitive rates is typically during the quieter months, such as January, when demand is lowest. During this period, rentals can start from as little as $11 a day for a special vehicle. Prices tend to be higher during the peak months of September and October, when demand for car rentals often climbs. Booking your car rental 3-4 weeks in advance can help you find better availability and rates, especially if your travel dates fall within these busier periods. Many bookings allow free cancellation, so you can book early and rebook if rates drop closer to your travel date.
What is the weather like for driving in Bristol?
Driving in Bristol generally involves navigating conditions that vary with the seasons. Demand for car rentals tends to be higher during September and October. For comfortable driving, especially during these busier times, a compact SUV offers good maneuverability and a slightly elevated view of the road. Always check local weather forecasts before embarking on longer journeys, and remember that driving in Bristol, like the rest of the United States, is on the right side of the road.
What are the best car companies in Bristol?
For car rental in Bristol, you have excellent choices from reputable suppliers like Alamo Rent A Car, Enterprise, and Dollar Rent A Car. Alamo offers versatile options such as compact SUVs and economy 2 or 4 door cars, both starting from $18 a day, which are great for city driving and fuel efficiency. Enterprise provides a range including special vehicles from $18 a day and fullsize 2 or 4 door cars from $19 a day, offering more space for passengers and luggage. Dollar Rent A Car features highly competitive rates, with special vehicles starting from $11 a day and midsize 2 or 4 door cars from $16 a day. When choosing, consider a compact or economy car for easy maneuvering and parking in urban areas, or a midsize or SUV for more comfort and space on longer road trips around Bristol. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Bristol.
What are good day trip destinations from Bristol by rental car?
Exploring the scenic surroundings of Bristol by car rental offers fantastic day trip opportunities for families, couples, and solo travelers. You can easily reach several beautiful destinations, making a car rental in Bristol an ideal choice for extended exploration.
  • Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park in New Harbor, just 8 miles from Bristol, is a picturesque coastal spot perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking stunning ocean views and a historic landmark.
  • La Verna Preserve in Round Pond, only 3 miles away, offers serene nature trails and coastal access for a quick escape.
  • Damariscotta Lake, approximately 21 miles from Bristol, provides a peaceful setting for families to enjoy swimming, picnicking, or simply relaxing by the water.
  • Sebago Lake, about 65 miles away, is a larger lake offering extensive recreational activities and a scenic drive, suitable for a longer day out.
  • Acadia National Park, located approximately 81 miles from Bristol, is a breathtaking destination for hiking, scenic drives, and exploring rugged coastlines, ideal for adventurous families or couples planning a full day trip.
For these excursions, a midsize car or a compact SUV, starting from $21 a day and $18 a day respectively, offers a comfortable and economical option for navigating the roads. Families or groups needing more space for passengers and gear will find a fullsize SUV, starting from $40 a day, or a mini passenger van, starting from $36 a day, to be excellent choices for a car rental for families in Bristol. Always ensure your rental car is fueled up before heading out, and consider packing water and snacks, especially for longer drives to destinations like Acadia National Park. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Bristol.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Bristol?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Bristol. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Bristol?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Bristol?
Budget car rental in Bristol can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Bristol?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Bristol. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Bristol car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Bristol?
To rent a car in Bristol, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Bristol car rental?
If you need to cancel your Bristol car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Bristol with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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