$54 Car Rental Portsmouth, OH

These Portsmouth insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 15, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Portsmouth

Renting a car in Portsmouth, Ohio, offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. This is particularly advantageous for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. You can visit local attractions such as the Portsmouth Floodwall Mural, which showcases public art, and the Boneyfiddle Commercial District, perfect for immersing yourself in the city's culture. Mound Park, an ancient monument, is also easily accessible with a rental car. Additionally, you can venture to nearby destinations like New Boston, which features Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park and Wheelersburg Golf Range. South Portsmouth, located less than 1 mile away, offers attractions such as the Philip Moore Jr. Stone House and more views of the Portsmouth Floodwall Mural. Just 2 miles away, South Shore provides access to Shawnee State Park. A rental car makes it convenient to explore all these key sites, ensuring you have the best experience during your visit to Portsmouth and its surroundings.

Most popular car rental in Portsmouth

• Compact SUV AWD: This is the most booked car option in Portsmouth, accommodating up to 5 travelers and allowing for up to 3 medium suitcases. It's perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families who want to explore the area comfortably. The all-wheel drive feature makes it suitable for various road conditions, providing flexibility and convenience for your travel plans.

Top rated car suppliers in Portsmouth

• Enterprise: With 1 rental location in the Portsmouth area, Enterprise is a top choice for travelers seeking flexibility and convenience. Their most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, making it easy to find the perfect ride for your needs. Enjoy the freedom to explore Portsmouth and its surroundings at your own pace while managing your luggage effortlessly.

Where to stay around Portsmouth

• Wheelersburg: Located 7 miles away from Portsmouth, Wheelersburg offers a scenic getaway for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Key attractions include the Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park, perfect for eco-friendly activities, and Greenbo Lake State Resort Park, a national state park ideal for adventure seekers. History buffs can explore the Philip Moore Jr. Stone House. The area also features local dining options including wineries and distilleries, making it a well-rounded destination.
• South Shore: Just 2 miles from Portsmouth, South Shore is an excellent choice for those seeking outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery. Visitors can enjoy the Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park and Shawnee State Park, both offering recreational activities and trails for hiking. The historic Philip Moore Jr. Stone House is also nearby, providing a cultural experience. South Shore has various restaurants for travelers to enjoy after a day of exploration.
• West Portsmouth: A mere 3 miles from Portsmouth, West Portsmouth is known for its outdoor activities and scenic landscapes. The Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park and Shawnee State Park offer ample opportunities for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The area also features the historic Philip Moore Jr. Stone House for cultural exploration. West Portsmouth has a selection of restaurants, wineries, and breweries that complement its outdoor charm, making it a delightful stay.

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 the type of vehicle and desired features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize Expedia's filters to identify the best fit for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your car well ahead of your travel date. By booking early, you’re likely to benefit from lower rates and improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. 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 economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many 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 incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, search for 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 vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Portsmouth

The best value period to rent a car in and around Portsmouth is February, as it features lower prices and the lowest demand of the year. The months of September and October also offer slightly low prices with moderate demand, making them good options for travelers. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with higher demand and prices. June through August see consistently higher prices and demand, making these summer months the busiest times for rentals.

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 $54.

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