$39 Car Rental Portsmouth

These Portsmouth insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: September 13, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Portsmouth

Renting a car in Portsmouth offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families, business travelers, or anyone interested in a city-themed experience. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary.

Portsmouth is home to key attractions such as the HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum, both ideal for cultural experiences. Additionally, you can enjoy the scenic Southsea Beach for a relaxing day by the sea. Venturing a short distance from Portsmouth, you can explore the nearby city of Gosport, just 1 mile away, featuring Stokes Bay Beach and the Royal Navy Submarine Museum. The charming city of Bembridge is 8 miles away, where you can visit popular beaches like Whitecliff Bay Beach. With a car, you can also check out Southsea, which includes The D-Day Story and Southsea Castle. Overall, renting a car enhances your travel experience by providing convenience and accessibility to a variety of attractions in and around Portsmouth.

Most popular car rentals in Portsmouth

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for travelers in Portsmouth, accommodating up to 5 passengers and 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families who desire flexibility and ease while exploring the city. Its manageable size makes it perfect for navigating city streets and finding parking without hassle, allowing you to enjoy your trip at your own pace.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is an excellent option for families, couples, or small groups, as it comfortably seats up to 5 travelers and carries up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle offers a blend of space and versatility, making it suitable for longer journeys or trips that require extra luggage. Its higher seating position also provides better visibility while driving, enhancing your overall travel experience in and around Portsmouth.
• Economy: The Economy car is a favored choice for those looking for affordability and efficiency. It accommodates up to 5 travelers and holds up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small families. This car type is perfect for those who want to explore Portsmouth without breaking the bank, offering a practical solution for city driving and day trips.

Top rated car suppliers in Portsmouth

• Europcar: Europcar is a popular choice for travelers in Portsmouth, offering a rental location within the city. Known for its great selection, the most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, making it suitable for various travel needs. Customers appreciate the flexibility and ease of managing their itinerary, allowing for spontaneous adventures around the area.
• Enterprise: With a rental location also in Portsmouth, Enterprise stands out for its focus on customer service. Travelers often choose Midsize SUVs and Premium vehicles from this supplier, benefiting from the convenience of tailored options. Enterprise is recognized for its friendly staff and efficient process, ensuring a smooth experience from pickup to drop-off.
• Routes: Routes has established a solid presence in Portsmouth, featuring a rental location that caters to the needs of tourists. Customers frequently opt for Compact SUVs and Midsize SUVs, which offer versatility for exploring the city and its surroundings. The supplier is noted for its straightforward rental process, making it a reliable choice for those seeking flexibility and comfort during their travels.

Where to stay in and around Portsmouth

• Bembridge: Located 8 miles from Portsmouth, Bembridge offers a scenic retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its beautiful beaches, such as Whitecliff Bay Beach and Bembridge Beach, it is perfect for beach vacations. The area features hiking trails and access to national parks, making it ideal for adventure seekers. Visitors can enjoy local dining options, including restaurants, breweries, and wineries, adding to the charm of this coastal city.
• Southsea: This neighborhood, situated around Portsmouth, is ideal for families and business travelers alike. Southsea boasts a vibrant shopping area and a theater, providing a city-themed experience. Key points of interest include The D-Day Story military museum for culture enthusiasts, Southsea Castle for a touch of romance, and Clarence Pier for leisurely strolls. Visitors can also enjoy nearby beaches and bars, making it a convenient and lively place to stay.
• Gosport: Just 1 mile away from Portsmouth, Gosport is a city perfect for outdoor adventures and family outings. The area offers access to shopping centers and theaters, making it a lively destination. Notable attractions include Stokes Bay Beach for beach vacations, Haslar Marina for outdoor activities, and the Royal Navy Submarine Museum for those interested in military history. Gosport's proximity to Portsmouth adds to its appeal, providing a mix of relaxation and exploration.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and desired features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for spaciousness, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the perfect fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary depending on demand, so it's wise to book your car well ahead of your trip. By reserving in advance, you're likely to lock in lower prices and have a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically come with lower rental rates and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This age-related restriction can also apply to renters above 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies implement a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worth the extra cost for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only 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. It's easy to add car rental insurance while booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Portsmouth

The best value period to rent a car in and around Portsmouth is November, when demand is low and prices are slightly low. January and February also see lower demand, making them attractive options for budget-conscious travelers. Mid-range months like March and April maintain average pricing and demand. However, July stands out as the most expensive month, with high demand and slightly high prices. August continues this trend with high demand, while September starts to ease back to slightly high pricing.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
February	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	49.1°F (9.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	54.1°F (12.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	59.5°F (15.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	63.1°F (17.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	63.1°F (17.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
September	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
October	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
November	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Portsmouth

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Portsmouth

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $39.

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