$42 Car Rental Portland, OR

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Portland

Renting a car in Portland offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. For outdoor enthusiasts, road trippers, and wine lovers, having a rental vehicle is ideal for visiting key attractions such as the Oregon Convention Center and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, both easily accessible with a car. Families will find it convenient for managing luggage and ensuring everyone stays together while visiting popular neighborhoods like Downtown Portland, where you can enjoy Tom McCall Waterfront Park and the Portland Art Museum.

Additionally, venturing into nearby areas like Beaverton allows you to discover the Wineries of Washington County Oregon and the scenic Tualatin Hills Nature Park. With a rental car, you can easily transition between various city experiences, such as exploring the modern Oregon Health and Science University or enjoying the cultural offerings in Northeast Portland. The flexibility to create your own itinerary without relying on public transportation enhances your travel experience, making your trip to Portland both enjoyable and memorable.

Most popular car rentals in Portland

• Midsize SUV: This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for 3 large suitcases. Midsize SUVs provide a comfortable ride and ample room for outdoor gear, making them a popular choice for those looking to explore the scenic beauty of the Portland area. Their versatility allows for both city driving and road trips, ensuring you have the freedom to enjoy Portland and its surroundings at your own pace.
• Fullsize: Accommodating up to 5 travelers with the capacity for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, fullsize cars are ideal for families and groups. This vehicle type offers a spacious interior that enhances the travel experience, making it suitable for longer journeys around Portland. With the extra room for luggage, you can easily manage your gear while enjoying the flexibility of exploring the city and its nearby attractions.
• Compact: A great choice for solo travelers, couples, or families, compact cars fit up to 5 travelers with space for 3 medium suitcases. Their smaller size makes them ideal for navigating Portland's city streets while offering ease of parking in urban areas. Compact cars are economical and provide a practical solution for those looking to explore the city and nearby areas without the need for excessive space.

Top rated car suppliers in Portland

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice for travelers seeking friendly service and a reliable vehicle. With a single rental location in Portland, this supplier boasts an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10. Customers appreciate the quick pick-up process and the cleanliness of their cars. The most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, making it a great option for those looking to explore the area comfortably.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar offers a convenient rental experience with one location in Portland. Travelers often choose this supplier for its competitive pricing and straightforward booking process. The most popular vehicles include Midsize and Compact cars, which are ideal for navigating the city and surrounding areas. With a focus on value, Dollar provides a solid option for budget-conscious travelers.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty stands out with over five rental locations in Portland, ensuring easy access for travelers. This supplier is known for its wide selection of vehicles, particularly Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars. Customers appreciate the flexibility and variety available, making it a fantastic choice for families and groups looking to explore the beautiful landscapes of Oregon.

Where to go in Portland

• Downtown Portland: This vibrant neighborhood is a hub for family, city, and business experiences. Popular attractions include Tom McCall Waterfront Park, an urban park perfect for outdoor family activities, and the Portland Art Museum, ideal for culture enthusiasts. The Oregon Convention Center serves as a key venue for business travelers. Visitor numbers peak in April and June to July, making it a lively time to explore the shopping malls and arena entertainment facilities.
• Northeast Portland: Known for its family-friendly and outdoor vibes, Northeast Portland features highlights such as The Grotto, a serene shrine appealing to culture seekers, and Wonder Ballroom, an arena entertainment facility that hosts various events. The Oregon Convention Center is also within proximity, catering to business travelers. This neighborhood sees peak visitor numbers from June to August, offering a bustling atmosphere during the summer months.
• Beaverton: Located nearby, Beaverton attracts travelers interested in family, city, and business experiences. Key points of interest include the Wineries of Washington County Oregon, which offer a unique attraction for visitors, and Tualatin Hills Nature Park, a nature reserve perfect for outdoor exploration. The Oregon Health and Science University adds a modern touch to the city. Visitor numbers peak in April and June to July, making it an ideal time for exploration in this charming city.

10 tips to save on your Portland car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, making it wise to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially 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 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 luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
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 typically the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airport locations often incurs an extra fee, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unforeseen expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unexpected arises during your trip. Adding car rental insurance during your booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid 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 Portland

The best time to rent a car in and around Portland is January and February, when prices and demand are both moderately low. April and May also offer average prices with slightly lower demand, making them good options. However, July sees the highest demand and prices, making it the most expensive month to rent a car. June through August continue this trend of high pricing and demand, making the summer months less favorable for budget-conscious travelers.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.8°F (4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Moderately Low
February	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Moderately Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
April	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	62.4°F (16.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Moderately High
July	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Moderately High
August	70.3°F (21.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Moderately High
September	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	45.5°F (7.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	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 $42.

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

Portland - Road Trip Ideas

Portland’s reputation as a haven for hipsters is well deserved. And among the tatts, hats, and ironic facial hair is a beautiful city, brimming with history and culture. When you pick up the keys to your car rental at Portland International Airport, you’ve got the power to explore this place and many, many more. Nestled neatly on the West Coast, Portland presents you with plenty of potential pathways. Head down state on a Portland to Crater Lake road trip or choose from cheap car rentals in Portland and cruise north to Canada. When you’ve got the keys, the choice is entirely yours.

Portland to Seattle

Take the scenic drive from Seattle to Portland for around 200 miles of motor meandering and maybe stop by a mountain or two. Book a one-way car rental from Portland to Seattle for the ultimate drive and fly. Zoom down Highway 101 to the coffee capital and hop back in under an hour by flying back. Stop off at Castle Rock for a hearty slice of old-school America or travel via Mossyrock for a more rural route. However you get there, make time for Pike Place Market when you arrive.

Portland to San Francisco

Pick your playlist, pack the snacks and grab the keys to your rental for a coastal road trip from Portland to San Francisco. Strap in for over 10 hours of open highway, glorious green scenery, and some epic skyscapes. When it’s time to stretch your legs, you can take your pick from Myrtle Creek, Red Bluff, and more. Or, why not break up the trip with a night under the canopy of Shasta Trinity National Forest. When you arrive, there is no shortage of shenanigans: ghost tours, food crawls, bars, bistros, bridges, San Fran has it all. Book a one-way car rental from Portland to San Francisco and cut your journey time considerably—the return flight is a little under 2 hours.