$41 Car Rental Portsmouth, VA

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What you need to know for your Portsmouth car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Portsmouth

Renting a car in Portsmouth offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace. With easy luggage management, you can enjoy spontaneous stops without the hassle of public transportation schedules. Whether you are traveling with family, seeking outdoor adventures, or planning a romantic getaway, a rental car caters to diverse interests. You can conveniently visit key attractions such as the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum for a cultural experience, or spend time at Portsmouth City Park, which is perfect for family outings and outdoor activities. The Chrysler Museum of Art, located just 2 miles away, adds to your cultural exploration. Additionally, your rental car allows for easy trips to nearby destinations like Norfolk, which is less than 1 mile away, where you can discover the Virginia Port Authority and Norfolk Botanical Garden. You can also explore Downtown Norfolk and Churchland, both featuring additional attractions like the USS Wisconsin BB-64 and Town Point Park. With a rental car, your travel plans remain flexible, making it simple to tailor your itinerary to your interests and needs while enjoying the sights around Portsmouth.

Top rated car suppliers in Portsmouth

  • Hertz: Hertz operates a rental location in Portsmouth, making it easy for travelers to access their services. Known for its reliable vehicles, Hertz’s most booked cars include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize options, catering to various travel needs. Customers appreciate the flexibility and convenience that come with renting from Hertz, allowing you to explore Portsmouth and its surroundings comfortably.
  • Enterprise: Enterprise also has a rental location in Portsmouth, renowned for its exceptional customer service. With a selection that includes Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, Enterprise is a favorite among travelers seeking a seamless rental experience. Many customers highlight the friendly staff and efficient check-in process, making it an excellent choice for both leisure and business trips.
  • U-Save Car Rental: U-Save Car Rental offers a convenient rental location in Portsmouth, featuring popular vehicle choices such as Compact cars and Fullsize Pickups. This supplier is appreciated for its straightforward rental process and competitive pricing. U-Save makes it easy for travelers to manage their luggage and transportation needs while exploring the area, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Where to stay in and around Portsmouth

  • Norfolk: Located less than 1 mile from Portsmouth, Norfolk offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for outdoor, family, or romantic experiences. Visitors can explore the Norfolk Botanical Garden, ideal for a leisurely stroll, or visit the USS Wisconsin BB-64, a fascinating maritime museum. The city also features a boardwalk, shopping centers, and various dining options, including wineries and restaurants. Enjoy the local beach and esplanade for a relaxing day by the water.
  • Chesapeake: About 5 miles from Portsmouth, Chesapeake is known for its family-friendly, outdoor, and romantic offerings. Highlights include Chesapeake City Park, an urban park that's perfect for picnics and outdoor activities, and Lake Drummond, renowned for its scenic beauty. The area also boasts shopping malls and various eateries, including wineries. Visitors can take advantage of the local beaches and esplanades for a leisurely day in nature.
  • Churchland: Situated around Portsmouth, Churchland is a neighborhood that caters to those seeking a family, outdoor, and city-themed experience. Attractions such as the Virginia Port Authority and USS Wisconsin BB-64 offer cultural insights, while Town Point Park serves as a lovely urban park ideal for family outings. The area features shopping centers and local dining options, including alcohol wineries and distilleries, perfect for unwinding after a day of 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 vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower prices and better vehicle availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, 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 accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions 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 additional charges. This is often the most economical choice. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just remember to return the car empty in this case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  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 prevent unexpected expenses and provides you with peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra fees.
  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 February, when prices are slightly low and demand remains moderately low. January also offers a quieter experience with slightly low prices. Moving into the spring months, March and April present average pricing and demand, providing a decent option for travelers. However, November stands out as the most expensive month, with prices rising slightly high and demand staying steady. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January41.0°F (5.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
March49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
June75.2°F (24.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
July79.7°F (26.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August78.4°F (25.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September73.6°F (23.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October64.0°F (17.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
December46.4°F (8.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage

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 $41.

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.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$41
 
Our second best deal of the day
$42
 
Our third best deal of the day
$47
 
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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Portsmouth?
Dollar Rent A Car offers a compact SUV starting from $14 a day, and Sixt offers a fullsize 2 or 4 door car starting from $17 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental in Portsmouth that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Portsmouth.
What are the best luxury car companies in Portsmouth?
For luxury car rentals in Portsmouth, you can find premium options through providers like Sixt and Avis. Sixt offers standard elite SUVs starting from $34 a day and fullsize elite SUVs starting from $36 a day. Avis also provides standard elite SUVs starting from $33 a day. These luxury vehicles offer enhanced comfort and features for a more refined travel experience in Portsmouth. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Portsmouth.
Can I rent a car one-way in Portsmouth?
A one-way car rental in Portsmouth is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $17 a day. Providers like Dollar Rent A Car and Sixt may have flexible one-way policies, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in Portsmouth and drop it off at a different location. This option is convenient for travelers planning to explore beyond the city without returning to their starting point. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Portsmouth.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Portsmouth?
Portsmouth is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $14 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring the area and returning to your starting point. Providers like Dollar Rent A Car and Sixt also offer wide round-trip availability, making it easy to plan your trip. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Portsmouth.
What are the best car rentals in Portsmouth?
Car rentals in Portsmouth offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
Most come with automatic transmission standard, and both automatic and manual transmissions are available. Families visiting attractions prefer SUVs or minivans for space; couples and solo travelers do well with economy or compact cars. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and budget. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Portsmouth.

What are the best car rentals in Portsmouth for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Portsmouth for solo travelers are compact and midsize classes—small, easy to park, and efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $19 a day — fits up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $17 a day — fits up to 5 people and 3 large suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you're planning longer drives, consider sizing up to a compact SUV, starting from $23 a day, for extra comfort and a higher ride. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Portsmouth.

What are the best car rentals in Portsmouth for couples?
The best car rentals in Portsmouth for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $17 a day — fits up to 5 people and 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $23 a day — fits up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip with more space, consider a fullsize 2 or 4 door car, also starting from $17 a day, which offers ample room for two and their luggage. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Portsmouth.

What are the best car rentals in Portsmouth for families?
The best car rentals in Portsmouth for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $18 a day — seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $25 a day — seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and minivans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around Portsmouth. Book ahead for the June-July peak, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods, and consider adding GPS if you're new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Portsmouth.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Portsmouth?
Yes, Portsmouth has excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options. Sixt offers hybrid vehicles starting from $14 a day and electric vehicles starting from $24 a day. Dollar Rent A Car also provides hybrid and electric options, both starting from $14 a day. Multiple rental companies in Portsmouth carry electric and hybrid cars, widely available on Expedia. Portsmouth has extensive public charging infrastructure with fast-charging stations along major routes. EVs save on fuel—charging costs less than equivalent gas cars. Book EVs 4-6 weeks ahead as demand can be high. Plan charging stops for trips beyond 200 miles.
What is the best time to book a car in Portsmouth?
From January, prices in Portsmouth are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $17 a day during this period. July tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What is the weather like for driving in Portsmouth?
Driving in Portsmouth experiences seasonal shifts throughout the year. Demand for car rentals tends to build around July, which can make roads to popular areas busier. For varying road conditions, a midsize SUV offers reliable grip and traction. Always check the weather forecast before embarking on longer trips, and consider carrying an emergency kit for any remote routes you might explore.
What are the best car companies in Portsmouth?
Car rentals in Portsmouth are available from providers like Sixt, Alamo Rent A Car, and Enterprise, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has fullsize 2 or 4 door and midsize 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Alamo Rent A Car offers compact SUVs and midsize 2 or 4 door vehicles with more space and stability for highways. Enterprise rounds out the choices with midsize 2 or 4 door and compact 2 or 4 door vehicles. Choose a higher-clearance SUV for varied terrain, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Portsmouth.
What are good day trip destinations from Portsmouth by rental car?
Exploring the region around Portsmouth by rental car offers fantastic day trip opportunities for families, couples, and solo travelers. You can easily reach several appealing destinations within a short drive, making your rental car a key to unlocking more of the area.
  • Virginia Beach Boardwalk is approximately 22 miles from Portsmouth, typically a 30-minute drive. This lively destination is perfect for families and couples seeking beach activities, dining, and entertainment along the oceanfront.
  • Sandbridge Beach, located about 28 miles from Portsmouth and around a 40-minute drive, provides a more tranquil beach experience, ideal for nature enthusiasts and those looking for a quieter escape.
  • For a scenic drive and natural beauty, Chesapeake Bay is roughly 59 miles away, taking approximately 1 hour to reach. It's a great choice for couples or solo travelers interested in coastal views and outdoor exploration.
  • Ocean View Beach is a convenient option, just 11 miles from Portsmouth, making it a quick 20-minute drive for a relaxed beach outing.
For these day trips, a midsize or fullsize car, starting from $17 a day, provides comfortable seating and ample luggage space for most groups. Families might prefer a midsize SUV starting from $18 a day or a standard SUV starting from $20 a day for extra room and versatility. Remember to fuel up before you depart, especially for longer drives to Chesapeake Bay, and consider packing essentials like water and snacks for a comfortable journey. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Portsmouth.

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 Portsmouth?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Portsmouth. 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 Portsmouth?
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 Portsmouth?
Budget car rental in Portsmouth can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $41. 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 Portsmouth?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Portsmouth. 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 Portsmouth car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Portsmouth?
To rent a car in Portsmouth, 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 Portsmouth car rental?
If you need to cancel your Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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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