$47 Car Rental Portland, ME

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Portland

Renting a car in Portland, Maine, offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility for your travel adventures. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a road tripper, or traveling with family, having a rental car allows you to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. You can easily manage luggage while visiting key attractions like the Cross Insurance Arena, which hosts various entertainment experiences, and the Portland Museum of Art, perfect for immersing yourself in the local culture. Don't miss the University of New England, a modern educational institution that adds to Portland's vibrant atmosphere. With convenient access to popular neighborhoods such as Downtown Portland—home to the arena, museum, and University of Southern Maine—you can experience the best the city has to offer. Plus, South Portland, just 2 miles away, features scenic spots like Willard Beach, while the historic Old Port area showcases charming streets and more cultural experiences. A rental car ensures you can visit these destinations hassle-free, making it an ideal choice for those looking to soak in the picturesque Maine scenery and enjoy a truly memorable trip.

Most popular car rentals in Portland

• Midsize SUV: This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups, comfortably accommodating 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases. Midsize SUVs offer a balance of space and maneuverability, making them ideal for both city driving in Portland and exploring the scenic surroundings. With ample room for passengers and luggage, this vehicle type is especially suited for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy the beautiful natural landscapes of the area.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is designed to fit 5 travelers with the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, making it a great choice for families or larger groups. This vehicle provides extra space for comfort during longer drives and is versatile enough for various travel plans. Whether embarking on a road trip or simply exploring the attractions of Portland, a fullsize vehicle ensures that you have the room needed for both passengers and their belongings.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV can accommodate 5 travelers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option strikes a good balance between size and efficiency, making it suitable for navigating Portland's urban environment as well as venturing into more rural areas. With a focus on comfort and convenience, standard SUVs are a popular choice among travelers seeking the freedom to explore at their own pace.

Top rated car suppliers in Portland

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo has 1 rental location in the Portland area, providing travelers with a friendly service experience. Known for its attentive staff and well-maintained vehicles, Alamo has an overall rating of 7 out of 10. Popular choices among customers include the Midsize SUV and Compact SUV, making it a solid option for those seeking comfort and reliability during their trip.
• Budget: Budget operates 1 rental location in Portland, offering a range of vehicles at competitive prices. Travelers frequently choose Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars from this supplier, appreciating the flexibility and convenience of their services. Budget is a great choice for those looking to explore the area with ease while managing their budget effectively.
• Dollar Rent A Car: With 2 rental locations in Portland, Dollar Rent A Car provides travelers with more options for vehicle pickup. This supplier is well-regarded for its selection, with Midsize and Fullsize cars being the most booked choices. Customers enjoy the accessibility and variety available, making Dollar a convenient and reliable choice for your car rental needs in and around Portland.

Where to go in and around Portland

• Downtown Portland: Located in the heart of Portland, Downtown Portland attracts travelers year-round, with peak visitation from July to September. This vibrant neighborhood offers a range of activities including outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. Key attractions include the Cross Insurance Arena for entertainment, the Portland Museum of Art for culture enthusiasts, and the historic University of Southern Maine. Don't miss the nearby beaches and lakes, perfect for a scenic day out.
• South Portland: Situated 2 miles away from Portland, South Portland sees consistent visitor traffic throughout the year, peaking from June to August. This city is ideal for family and business travelers, featuring shopping centers and educational venues. Enjoy the sun at Willard Beach or explore the Cross Insurance Arena for family-friendly events. The Southern Maine Community College also offers a modern educational experience, making it a great stop for those interested in local academia.
• Old Port: Another charming neighborhood around Portland, Old Port experiences moderate seasonality, with peak visits from June to August. Known for its outdoor activities and scenic views, this area is perfect for families. Key points of interest include the Cross Insurance Arena for entertainment, the Portland Museum of Art for culture lovers, and the historic University of Southern Maine. Explore the local beaches and lakes for a delightful outdoor experience.

10 tips to save on your Portland car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, filters on Expedia can assist you in finding the ideal vehicle 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 are more likely to lock in lower rates and have better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This also applies to renters over 70 years of age. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most economical option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can be acceptable too. 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 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 unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance during your Expedia booking is a simple process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long 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 for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Portland

The best value period to rent a car in and around Portland is January and February, when prices are moderately low and demand is at its lowest. March also offers good rates, maintaining low demand. As spring arrives, April and May see average prices with moderate demand. However, the summer months of June through August are the most expensive, particularly July, when rental prices and demand peak significantly. September then shifts back to average pricing but maintains high demand.

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

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Portland

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Portland

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Portland. 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 Portland

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $47.

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.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals