$102 Car Rental Portland, ME

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Portland

Renting a car in Portland, Maine, offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families or outdoor enthusiasts. Key attractions like the Portland Museum of Art, East End Beach, and the Eastern Promenade are all easily accessible with a vehicle, allowing you to enjoy cultural, beach, and outdoor experiences. Additionally, popular nearby destinations such as South Portland, just 2 miles away, feature attractions like Willard Beach and Portland Head Light. You can also visit the vibrant neighborhoods of Downtown Portland and Old Port, where you can find more cultural sites and scenic views. Having a rental car means you won’t have to rely on public transportation schedules, enabling you to spend more time enjoying the sights and less time waiting. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or seeking adventure, a rental car in Portland enhances your experience by providing the convenience to discover all that this charming city and its beautiful surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Portland

• Midsize: The Midsize car is a popular choice for travelers in Portland, accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for couples and families who want to explore the area comfortably while managing their luggage with ease. Its balanced size makes it versatile for both city driving and longer trips to nearby attractions.
• Standard Van: Perfect for larger groups, the Standard Van can accommodate up to 8 travelers and offers room for up to 6 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for large families or groups traveling together. The extra space ensures everyone can travel comfortably and enjoy the flexibility of exploring Portland and its surroundings without the hassle of multiple vehicles.
• Compact: The Compact car is a great option for those traveling solo or in pairs, as it accommodates 5 travelers and up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type is ideal for couples and small families looking for a practical and efficient way to navigate Portland. Its smaller size allows for easier parking and maneuverability in the city, making it a convenient choice for urban exploration.

Top rated car suppliers in Portland

• Alamo Rent A Car: With 1 rental location in the area of Portland, Alamo is known for its friendly service, making it a popular choice among travelers. Their most booked vehicles include the Midsize SUV and Compact, offering great options for those looking to explore the scenic beauty of Maine. Enjoy the flexibility of managing your luggage and adjusting your itinerary as you discover the attractions around Portland.
• Budget: Also with 1 rental location in the area of Portland, Budget is recognized for providing excellent value for your car rental needs. Many customers opt for their Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles, which are perfect for families or groups traveling together. Renting from Budget allows you to experience the convenience of a reliable vehicle while exploring Portland at your own pace.
• Dollar Rent A Car: With 2 rental locations in the area of Portland, Dollar Rent A Car offers a robust selection of vehicles. Customers frequently choose Midsize and Fullsize cars, making it a great option for those who prefer a little extra space. The additional locations provide more flexibility for pickup and drop-off, ensuring a smooth rental experience as you navigate the sights in and around Portland.

Where to stay in and around Portland

• South Portland: Located 2 miles away from Portland, South Portland is an excellent choice for those seeking a family-friendly or business-themed experience. Visitors can enjoy attractions like Willard Beach, perfect for a beach vacation, and the historic Portland Head Light. Additionally, the Portland Museum of Art offers rich cultural experiences. With nearby shopping centers and dining options, including restaurants and wineries, South Portland combines convenience with leisure.
• Downtown Portland: This vibrant neighborhood around Portland invites travelers seeking outdoor activities, family fun, and scenic views. Key highlights include the Portland Museum of Art and the historic Wadsworth-Longfellow House, both suitable for culture enthusiasts. Downtown Portland also features a range of shopping venues and dining options, making it a lively area to explore and enjoy the local culinary scene.
• Old Port: Known for its charming streets and waterfront views, Old Port offers visitors a delightful outdoor experience. Attractions such as the Portland Head Light and East End Beach make it ideal for those looking to enjoy scenic beauty. The area is also home to theaters and music venues, providing entertainment options. With a variety of restaurants and breweries nearby, Old Port is perfect for those wanting to indulge in local flavors while soaking in the historic ambiance.

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

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 options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect fit for your trip.
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 travel dates. By booking early, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, especially during peak 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 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 luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before you book.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is generally the most cost-effective option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just make sure to return the car empty if you choose the latter.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may incur an additional charge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience might 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 protect you from unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind during your trip. It’s easy to add rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid additional 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 value time 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 similar benefits, maintaining low prices and quiet demand. As spring approaches, April and May see average prices and demand, making them decent shoulder months. However, July stands out as the most expensive month, with high demand driving up rental rates. August continues this trend, as it remains a busy time for car rentals.

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 $102.

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